TWI649076B - A mobile support assembly (2) - Google Patents

Abstract

A mobile support assembly constructed for personal activity, comprising a frame assembly for selectively positioning between an operational orientation and a stowed orientation, the frame assembly comprising two side assemblies, each side assembly comprising Support wheel connected to it. The adjustable linkage mechanism can movably interconnect the two side assemblies to each other in both the operative and stowed orientations. The operational orientation includes the two side members being at maximum lateral spacing from one another while being interconnected by the adjustable linkage mechanism described above. The stowed orientation includes the two side members being spaced closer to each other and disposed substantially adjacent as compared to the maximum lateral spacing when in the operational orientation.

Description

Mobile support assembly Priority statement

U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/680,596 filed on Oct. 7, 2003, which issued U.S. Patent No. 7,073,801 on July 11, 2006, and U.S. Patent No. 11/129,569, filed on May 13, 2005 Application, the application obtained US Patent No. 7,066,484 on June 27, 2006, which is a partial continuation application of the previous US patent application; on January 31, 2006, the application for serial number 11/343,299 was applied, and now it is No. 7,540,527 U.S. Patent, which claims the priority of the prior U.S. patent application; the application Serial No. 11/581,762 filed on Oct. 16, 2006, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in On the 30th, the US patent application with the serial number of 11/980,340 was applied. The application obtained the US patent No. 7,926,834 on April 19, 2011, which is the continuation patent application of the previous application; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. U.S. Patent No. Serial No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. Applications; all of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Field of invention

The present invention is directed to a mobile support assembly for use as a walker/wheelchair It is constructed or used as a walker with a seat structure, and is selectively disposed in a stowed position for storage, transportation, shipping, etc. when not in use, and is disposed in an operational orientation when it is desired to use. The assembly will decrease in size when retracted and its configuration will change from the configuration at the operating position.

Many people lack activity due to age, medical conditions and other reasons. Therefore, these people often need some type of mechanical aids or devices to enable them to move from one location to the next. Known devices that are readily available on the commercial market include "walker" assemblies that typically enable an individual to self-support in an upright, substantially stable orientation while standing or walking. For individuals who are not physically weak, known walker assemblies enable them to safely pass through indoor and outdoor support surfaces such as floors, sidewalks, streets, and the like. Moreover, conventionally constructed walkers may or may not include a support wheel assembly. When there is such a wheel assembly, it can help the user to move. However, the presence of such a wheel assembly may reduce the stability of the walker depending on its structural characteristics and whether there are associated safety measures. This is especially true when all four legs of the walker frame include wheels, rollers or the like attached to their lower ends.

Another device for assisting people who may be exposed to more severe physical limitations includes moving chair structures or "wheelchairs." In recent years, wheelchair usage has increased, at least in part, due to the growing elderly population. Thus, various forms of wheelchairs have evolved from a lightweight, less bulky wheelchair structure to a heavier, larger chair assembly. In addition, the more advanced wheelchair design is maneuverable, although more expensive, but still relatively common. Obviously, Larger, more complex and/or motorized wheelchair assemblies have the unique advantage of helping to move without the user having to manually apply a large amount of force. In addition, control components associated with the steering and operation of more advanced motorized wheelchair structures can enable severely disabled or almost completely paralyzed persons to be used substantially independently.

Mobile support structures, including both walkers and wheelchairs, have each evolved to a more efficient and reliable stage of use. However, it seems that there is no combined structure with versatile functions to allow a single mobile support assembly to take different orientations through the structural components that make up such components, both as a walker and as a wheelchair. Thus, while the above-described types of mobility aids have undergone developments and advancements, there is still a need for an improved mobile support device that provides important support and stability both as a walker and/or wheelchair. The proposed activity assisting tool constructed to meet the above requirements should be able to be easily and quickly configured to the operating position for use, and possibly configured to be stowed for storage.

Further, the proposed multi-purpose mobile support assembly, the various structural components thereof, should be cooperatively configured, arranged and constructed to facilitate selective positioning thereof in a plurality of different orientations. Thus, the mobile support device can be converted for use as a walker or wheelchair assembly. In addition, the proposed multi-purpose mobile support assembly can have additional complementary functions such that when the support assembly is in the walker configuration, the structure also allows the user to be at least temporarily supported in the seating orientation, wherein the user Temporary short breaks may be required when the wheelchair itself is not required. If such a proposed multi-purpose mobile support assembly is developed, it should include a frame and other operational components that are cooperatively constructed and relatively operable to enable the support assembly to be selectively Use for walker or wheelchair components.

In at least one of the various preferred embodiments, a folding walker provides a means for assisting the user in activities. The folding walker includes a frame that is selectively positionable between an operational orientation and a storage orientation. The frame of the walker assembly is at least partially defined by a front leg assembly including at least a first front leg and a rear leg assembly including at least a first rear leg coupled to the first front leg. The first rear leg includes an upper member having a first end and a second end and a lower member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the upper member is pivotally coupled to the first end of the lower member, and the lower member is preferably pivotable between an extended use position and a folded storage position.

Moreover, another preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the walker assembly including a front wheel assembly coupled to the front leg assembly and a rear wheel assembly coupled to the rear leg assembly. Other structural features associated with the front and rear wheel assemblies are that they can be selectively disposed at a position that reduces at least the longitudinal dimension and overall configuration of the walker assembly when in a storage orientation. More specifically, various embodiments of the walker assembly of the present invention include the front wheel assembly removably secured to the front leg assembly. Similarly, the rear wheel assembly can be coupled to at least a portion of the rear leg assembly such that it can be moved to and from the folded storage position. Alternatively, the rear wheel assembly can be disconnected from the rear leg assembly. In any of the structural variants, the configuration and at least the longitudinal dimension of the frame of the walker assembly is further reduced to facilitate storage and transport of the walker assembly.

Additional additional structural features include that the handle assembly can be adjustably and/or removably fastened to the frame of one or more embodiments of the walker assembly. Moreover, the seat is movably coupled to the frame and can be associated with the glove compartment. Thus, the seat can be selectively placed in a position such that it supports the user of the walker assembly. When in such a support position, the seat overlooks and at least partially covers an access opening of a compartment. Other associated structural features can include a backrest that is arranged and configured to support the back of the user when the user is seated on the seat of the walker in a seated position. The structural feature of the seat, compartment and backrest is to further facilitate compact reduction of the configuration and size of the walker assembly when the walker assembly is disposed in the storage orientation described above, such as It is desirable to facilitate storage and/or transportation of the walker assembly.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a mobile support assembly that is configured to have a versatile function and, like the embodiments described above, can be selectively disposed between an operational orientation and a stored orientation. More specifically, the mobile support assembly of the preferred embodiment can be selectively utilized as a walker or wheelchair depending on the orientation of the frame and/or one or more components associated with the frame. Moreover, the frame includes at least one adjustable portion or adjustable frame segment that is at least partially rotatable or pivotable relative to the remainder of the frame. Thus, the frame as a whole and the adjustable or adjustable frame segments may in particular be selectively arranged in a first orientation or a second orientation. Arranging the frame and/or the adjustable frame segments in the first orientation enables the mobile support assembly to be used as a walker, wherein the frame and/or the adjustable frame segments are disposed in the first Two-way shelter The mobile support assembly can be used as a wheelchair.

Other structural and operational features of the preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly include that the frame further includes two side frame segments that are at least partially configured, constructed, and arranged to define a portion of the chair assembly. The chair assembly includes a main support for an individual in a seated orientation when the mobile support assembly is in the second orientation and is used as a wheelchair. Further, the chair assembly includes a seat and a back support that are arranged and configured to provide appropriate support and at least some comfort to a person seated. The movement of the support assembly of the preferred embodiment is facilitated by including frames that are each coupled to the front and rear leg assemblies of the wheel assembly. The wheel assembly includes a plurality of wheels of the same number as the legs, including a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly. Thus, when the mobile support assembly is used as a walker or wheelchair, the wheel assembly supports the mobile support assembly over any of a variety of different ground or other support surfaces.

Another preferred embodiment of the invention includes a mobile support assembly, primarily in the form of a walker assembly, which, like the embodiment described above, includes a frame that facilitates the individual's stable travel over a variety of different surfaces. Additionally, the frame includes a front leg assembly and a rear leg assembly, each of the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly preferably including two spaced apart legs. The front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are movably interconnected to each other such that the frame can be selectively disposed in an operational orientation or a storage orientation. The front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are positioned to facilitate personal support and/or travel on a variety of different surfaces and above in an operational orientation.

When storing the orientation, the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are folded or Other ways are arranged oppositely to at least partially align or coextend. Thus, the storage orientation allows the frame to be at least a reduced lateral dimension. Moreover, the storage orientation can also facilitate the frame to have a reduced longitudinal dimension by selectively adjusting the wheel assembly relative to a leg assembly coupled to one or more wheel assemblies. Moreover, the storage orientation of the frame can also be defined, at least in part, by detaching one or more wheel assemblies at least partially from their respective leg assemblies to further achieve a reduced longitudinal dimension of the frame.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to a mobile support assembly that is operable to facilitate movably supporting a person on any of a variety of different surfaces. The preferred embodiment serves as a "walker" that is similar in operation to other preferred embodiments described herein when the individual is in a standing walking orientation. In contrast, the preferred embodiment incorporates a chair that includes a seat and armrest for supporting a person in a substantially seating orientation, wherein the mobile support assembly can be moved or retained when the individual is seated still.

Accordingly, the mobile support assembly of this preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a frame assembly that is configured to be selectively positioned between an operational orientation and a stowed orientation. Thus, the frame assembly includes two side frame assemblies, each side frame assembly including a support wheel coupled to the side frame assembly and arranged to engage a surface on which the moving support assembly travels. Moreover, each of the side frame assemblies includes a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly, the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly being removably attachable to respective side assemblies for ease of disassembly and downsizing in the stowed orientation described above And change the configuration.

The two side components are each movably adjustable through an adjustable linkage The whole land is connected to each other. More specifically, the adjustable linkage mechanism includes two elongated links that are pivotally or rotatably interconnected between opposite ends thereof. Further, each of the elongated link members includes a first opposite end and a second opposite end, wherein the first and second opposite ends of each of the elongated link members are movably coupled to different side members. When retracting the orientation, the size and configuration of the frame vary greatly to be sufficiently reduced and/or varied to facilitate transport and/or travel. In contrast, in the operational position, as also noted above, the frame of the mobile support assembly can be used as a walker and/or to support an individual in a seating orientation.

A selective arrangement between the operational orientation and the stowed orientation is achieved by the interaction of the two movably interconnected elongated link members that at least partially define the adjustable linkage. Thus, the operational orientation includes placement of the two elongated link members between the side members in a laterally extending or deployed orientation, the two side members being substantially laterally spaced apart from one another. Thus, like the side assembly to which the link member is attached, the first and second opposite ends of the link member are arranged at a maximum lateral spacing from each other.

In contrast, the stowed orientation includes the two side assemblies being disposed at relatively close relative spacing as compared to the maximum lateral spacing of the side assemblies when in the operational orientation. The stowed orientation further includes the two elongated link members of the adjustable linkage being arranged in substantially adjacent, longitudinally extending alignment or orientation. Thus, in the stowed orientation, the two side members are brought closer together, thereby reducing the lateral dimension of the frame assembly. Further, the stowed orientation can also be transmitted through the front wheel assembly and/or the rear wheel assembly One or both of the two side members are broken to define. Similarly, a handle member extending outwardly from each of the two side assemblies at a selectively variable distance may also be detached to further reduce the frame when stowed. Overall size and/or configuration.

Other structural features include that the chair includes the seat described above, the seat being cooperatively disposed relative to the backrest to simultaneously support the individual while the individual is seated. Both the seat and the backrest may be formed from a flexible material and arranged in an interconnected relationship between each side assembly to move with the side assembly between an operational orientation and a stowed orientation. Thus, when the orientation is retracted, when the two side members are selectively arranged in substantially adjacent relationship to each other, both the flexible seat and the backrest are folded for effective stowage. In contrast, both the seat and the backrest extend outwardly and/or longitudinally so that sufficient tension is applied thereto to support the corresponding portion of the individual's body.

Other structural features of the preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly include interconnecting a compartment between laterally spaced side assemblies in a support orientation. The compartment may also be made of a flexible material such that the compartment is of reduced size when the two side assemblies are selectively positioned in the above-described stowed orientation in a closer laterally spaced relationship. And / or configuration to close up.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings.

100‧‧‧Folding Walker

110a‧‧‧First front leg

110b‧‧‧second front leg

112a, 112b, 124a‧‧‧ first end

114a, 114b, 126a, 126b‧‧‧ second end

114A‧‧‧lower; lower leg

114B, 132A, 132B‧‧‧Front and hind legs

116a, 116b‧‧‧Folding bracket

118‧‧‧ tied

120a‧‧‧First hind legs

120b‧‧‧second hind legs

122a‧‧‧First upper component

122b‧‧‧Second upper component

125a, 125b‧‧‧ pivoting components

127‧‧‧ bracket

128‧‧‧First cross member

129‧‧‧Horizontal components

130a‧‧‧First lower component

130b‧‧‧Second lower component

132a‧‧‧ first end

136‧‧‧Second cross member

140a, 140b‧‧‧ first and second handles

142,352,554‧‧‧ seats

143‧‧ Threaded knob

144,555‧‧‧ backrest

146‧‧‧ cushion; armrest

148,560‧‧‧ 物箱箱

149‧‧‧Snap

150‧‧‧Hinged components

150a‧‧‧First articulation assembly

150b‧‧‧Second articulated assembly

152a‧‧‧ upper

154‧‧‧ sleeve

156‧‧‧Keyhole

159a‧‧‧Corresponding shaft hole

160a‧‧‧ lower

162‧‧ core

164‧‧‧Locking channel

166‧‧‧Axis

166a‧‧‧corresponding axis channel

170‧‧‧Locking

172‧‧‧ button

174‧‧ ‧ spring

180‧‧‧ Rear wheel assembly, wheel structure

182‧‧‧ brake

184, 332 ‧ ‧ pole

186‧‧‧ Pull the cable

188,334,420‧‧‧ front wheel assembly

200‧‧‧ components

200,200’‧‧ Axis

202,202’‧‧‧

204‧‧‧ inner surface

206, 206', 208, 210, 208', 210', 319, 462' ‧ ‧ holes

208, 228 ‧ ‧ internal

220‧‧‧ bracket; stop connector

222,222'‧‧‧Stop sales

224,224',226,226'‧‧‧

300‧‧‧Support components

302,402‧‧‧Frame

304, 306‧‧‧ side frame

308‧‧‧Upper side frame

308', 310'‧‧‧ upper end

310‧‧‧Bottom frame

312,313,315,319‧‧‧ Connection structure

313', 313"‧‧‧ Attachment, connection section

314‧‧‧Handle assembly

316,524‧‧‧handle

316'‧‧‧Slim

317‧‧‧handle

318‧‧‧ interval

320,329,410,420'‧‧‧ Rear wheel assembly

321‧‧‧Spring biased locking member

330‧‧‧ Rear wheel

333,411‧‧‧ hind legs

333'‧‧‧ upper end

333', 508‧‧‧

335‧‧‧Horizontal components

336‧‧‧ front wheel

340‧‧‧ 谷体

342‧‧‧foot support assembly

344‧‧‧ pedal part

346‧‧‧Support arm

348‧‧‧ Rotatable connection assembly

350‧‧‧ Chair components

354‧‧‧Back support

360‧‧‧Connected area

370‧‧‧Adjustable frame

370’‧‧‧ side

372‧‧‧ liner

380‧‧‧Handrail

390‧‧‧End

392‧‧‧Indented area

394‧‧‧ protruding lip

396‧‧‧Hook bracket

400‧‧‧Support components

404‧‧‧ beams

406‧‧‧Support members

408‧‧‧Front leg assembly

409‧‧‧ front legs

409'‧‧‧ Main Department

409'‧‧‧ upper

412,413‧‧‧lower, leg

415‧‧‧掣子结构

422‧‧‧ wheel structure

450‧‧‧ bracket assembly

452‧‧‧Locking components

454,456‧‧‧ bracket section

459‧‧‧Chain

460‧‧‧ Directional Arrows

462‧‧‧ recess

464‧‧‧Convex members

464’‧‧‧ refers to, sell

500‧‧‧Support components

502‧‧‧Frame components

504, 506‧‧‧ side components

510‧‧‧ fork structure

510', 510" ‧ ‧ fork

512‧‧‧front wheel assembly

513‧‧‧ Connecting rod

514‧‧‧ Rear wheel assembly

514'‧‧‧ casters

516‧‧‧Installation hub

520‧‧‧Handle structure

520'‧‧‧Handle

520"‧‧‧ brake controller

522'‧‧‧ holes, notches

540‧‧‧Adjust the linkage mechanism

542,544‧‧‧Slim link members

546‧‧‧ first opposite end

548‧‧‧ second opposite end

549‧‧‧Connecting parts

550‧‧‧ Attached connecting rod

551‧‧‧ Side Mounting Department

552‧‧‧ Chair assembly

562‧‧‧ entrance

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the invention, reference should be

Figure 1 is an embodiment of a folding walker in an operational position Front perspective view.

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the folding walker shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a side elevational view of the folding walker of Figure 1.

4a and 4b are front and side views of an upper portion of an embodiment of a hinge assembly as used in the folding walker of Fig. 1.

Figures 5a and 5b are front and side views of a lower portion of an embodiment of a hinge assembly as used in the folding walker of Figure 1.

Figures 6a to 6d are partial cross-sections of an embodiment of the hinge assembly of the upper and lower portions shown in Figures 4a-4b and 5a-5b, respectively, for use with the folding walker of Figure 1 Side view.

Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the folding walker of Figure 1 when partially folded in a storage orientation.

Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the folding walker of Figure 1 when fully folded in a storage orientation.

9 is a top plan view of a stop connector for retaining a wheel assembly in a connected relationship with a respective leg assembly in at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is a partially cutaway front elevational view of the respective connection of the front leg assembly and/or the rear leg assembly to the front wheel assembly and/or the rear wheel assembly.

Figure 11 is a partially cutaway side elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 10.

Figure 12 is a partially cutaway front elevational view of the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11 in a connected or assembled position.

13 is a partially cutaway front elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 with the stop connector shown in FIG. 9 disposed in a detent position relative to the respectively connected leg assembly and wheel assembly.

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 13 taken along line 14-14.

15 is a front perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention relating to a multi-purpose mobile support assembly that can be used as a walker or wheelchair.

16 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the mobile support assembly in a first orientation such that it can be used as a walker.

Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 16.

18 is a partial cutaway detailed view of a portion of a wheel assembly associated with a moving support assembly and an ankle or support member that may be associated therewith.

Figure 19 is a partial cutaway detailed view of a handle of the adjustable handle assembly, the position of which can be selectively varied.

20 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention configured to efficiently and significantly reduce the size of the compact orientation for storage and/or transport.

21 is a detailed perspective view of the armrest associated with the preferred embodiment of FIG. 20 and other embodiments described below.

22 is a partial cutaway detailed view of the embodiment of FIG. 20 with some of its structural components disposed in a stowed compact orientation.

23 is a partial cutaway detailed view of the connector associated with the collapsible nature of the embodiment of FIG.

Figure 24 is a detailed perspective view of one of the two side frame sections joined to the handle assembly and the armrest of the embodiment of Figure 20.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present invention in the form of a walker and including a frame and associated portion The components that are normally included are not attached.

Figure 26 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 25.

Figure 27 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of Figures 25 and 26.

28 is a partial cutaway perspective view of both the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly of the embodiment of FIGS. 25-27 with the respective wheel assembly in a position to be mounted thereon.

29 is a top cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a stop connector similar to but different from the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14.

30 is a partially cutaway front elevational view of the respective connection of the leg assembly and/or the rear leg assembly to the front wheel assembly and/or the rear wheel assembly prior to the embodiment of FIGS. 25-28.

Figure 31 is a partially cutaway side elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 30.

Figure 32 is a partially cutaway front elevational view of the embodiment of Figures 30 and 31 in a connected or assembled position.

33 is a partially cut away side elevational view of the bracket assembly associated with the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly of the embodiment of FIGS. 25-29 when the support assembly is in the operative position.

Figure 34 is a top plan view of the embodiment of Figure 33 with the bracket assembly in a folded position to position the support assembly of the embodiment of Figures 25-29 in a stowed orientation.

Figure 35 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present invention.

Figure 36 is a perspective view of an exploded view of the embodiment of Figure 1.

Figure 37 is a perspective view of the present invention as presented in the embodiment of Figures 35 and 36. Front view of the moving support assembly.

Figure 38 is a partially cutaway rear perspective view showing the mobile support assembly positioned from the operational orientation to the stowed orientation of Figure 1;

39 is a partially cutaway rear perspective view of the mobile support assembly of the embodiment of FIG. 38 in a proximal, laterally spaced apart position to at least partially define a stowed orientation.

In all of these figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same parts.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiment

Referring now in more detail to the drawings, Figures 1 through 3 illustrate one embodiment of the folding walker 100 in an operational orientation. As shown, the folding walker 100 includes a frame that is at least partially defined by a front leg assembly and a rear leg assembly. More specifically, the front leg assembly includes a first front leg 110a and a second front leg 110b that are fastened to each other through at least a first cross member 128. The first front leg 110a and the second front leg 110b are each pivotally coupled to a rear leg assembly that includes a first rear leg 120a and a second rear leg 120b, respectively. The first and second rear legs 120a, 120b each include an upper member or upper portion 122a, 122b that, in at least one preferred embodiment, is hingedly attached to the hinge assembly 150a, 150b, respectively, through hinge assemblies 150a, 150b Corresponding lower members or lower portions 130a, 130b, which will be discussed in greater detail below. Preferably, the first upper member 122a and the second upper member 122b are connected by a second cross member 136 that is positioned the same as the first cross member 128 above the support surface below the folding walker 100 height. Available before the first and second Additional cross members, such as cross members 129 (although not necessarily in all embodiments) between the legs 110a, 110b and the first and second upper members 122a, 122b are provided for the folding walker 100 Additional stability. Preferably, the first cross member 128, the second cross member 136, and the cross member 129 are welded to the bracket 127, which in turn is welded to the corresponding leg of the folding walker 100. Of course, other connection structures are also considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Further, the first and second front legs 110a, 110b are preferably coupled to the first and second upper members 122a, 122b, respectively, through the folding brackets 116a, 116b. The first and second folding brackets 116a, 116b are preferably coupled to each other by a tie rod 118 and are configured such that the folding brackets 116a, 116b are only retracted when the tie rod is pushed up from the support surface below the folding walker 100. .

As indicated above, as best shown in FIG. 2, the first and second upper members or upper portions 122a, 122b are hingedly coupled to the first and second lower members, respectively, through the first and second hinge assemblies 150a, 150b or Lower portions 130a, 130b. For the sake of clarity, only the first rear leg 120a will be described, it being understood that the second rear leg 120b has equivalent structural and operational features. As shown, the second end 126a of the first upper member 122a is preferably rotatably coupled to the front leg 110a via a pivoting structure, such as a pivot assembly 125a. Similarly, pivot assembly 125b rotatably couples second end 126b to second front leg 110b. The upper portion 152a (Figs. 4a and 4b) of the first hinge assembly 150a is secured to the first end 124a of the upper member 122a. Similarly, the lower portion 160a (Figs. 5a and 5b) is mounted to the first end 132a of the first lower member 130a. The upper and lower portions 152a, 160a are hingedly fastenable to each other by passing the shaft 166 through the respective shaft holes 159a in the upper portion 152a and the corresponding shaft passages 166a in the lower portion 160a. Thus, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, The first lower member 130a is fastened to the first member 122a. As shown in Figures 6a through 6d, the lower portion 160a includes an offset lock pin 170 that is threadedly secured to the low profile button 172 to facilitate operation of the first hinge assembly 150a. Moreover, the lock pin 170 is biased by a spring 174. The operation of the first and second hinge assemblies 150a, 150b and the folding walker 100 are discussed in greater detail below.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, a preferred embodiment of the folding walker 100 can include a seat 142 that is movably coupled to the first and second cross members when in the operational orientation as shown. 128,136 and supported by it. As shown, the seat assembly 142 is in a support position to allow a user to seat thereon. The backrest 144 supported between the first and second front legs 110a, 110b can also be arranged in a supporting relationship with the back of the seated user, and thus can include a cushion or pad 146 for comfort to the user. Preferably, the seat assembly 142 is configured to rotate about the first cross member 128 such that when the frame of the walker assembly is in the stowed orientation of Figures 7 and 8, the seat 142 can be rotated toward the backrest 144 and disposed with the backrest In a fundamentally facing relationship.

When so arranged, the interior of the compartment 148, which is typically disposed below the seat 142, can be accessed and exposed. Preferably, the storage compartment 148 is supported by the first and second cross members 128, 136 and is formed of a flexible material that is secured to the first and second cross members 128, 136 by a plurality of snaps 149, These snaps allow the compartment 148 to be removed. In a preferred embodiment, the flexibility of the storage compartment 148 is such that when the frame is in the operational orientation of Figures 1 through 3, the storage compartment is disposed in the deployed position, and when the frame is in the storage position of Figure 8, the storage compartment is in the front leg The stowed position between the assembly and the rear leg assembly. However, still Other embodiments in which the storage bin 148 includes a wire mesh basket or other similar structure are contemplated.

As shown in all of the figures, the walker assembly 100 preferably includes a front wheel assembly including a wheel structure 188, and a rear wheel assembly including the wheel structure 180. More specifically, the first and second front legs 110a, 110b each include a different front wheel structure 188 disposed at the second end 114a, 114b of each leg. As shown, the front wheel structure 188 is preferably fitted with casters such that the front wheel structure 188 is fully rotatable about the first and second front legs 110a, 110b, thereby increasing the maneuverability of the folding walker assembly 100. The first and second rear legs 120a, 120b are each coupled to one of the rear wheel structures 180, and the rear wheel structure is disposed at the second ends 134a, 134b of the first and second lower members or lower portions 130a, 130b. Preferably, the rear wheel assembly 180 is not fitted with casters and therefore does not pivot about the first and second rear legs 120a, 120b.

As shown in Figures 1-3, at least one preferred embodiment of the folding walker assembly 100 is configured such that when the first and second lower members or lower portions 130a, 130b are locked by virtue of the structural features of the hinge assemblies 150a and 150b When the position is fully extended, the user is assisted to walk. For ease of description, only the first hinge assembly 150a is discussed, it being understood that the hinge assembly 150b is a replica and/or structural equivalent thereof. During use, the first hinge assembly 150a is configured as shown in Figure 6a, as viewed from the front of the walker 100. The core 162 of the lower portion 160a is disposed within the sleeve 154 of the upper portion 152a. The core 162 is secured in place by a locking pin 170 that extends through both the upper portion 152a and the lower portion 160a. As shown, when the core 162 is properly seated within the sleeve 154, the locking passage 164 that receives the biasing lock pin 170 is aligned with the locking aperture 156 formed in the sleeve 154. lock The fixed passage 164 also receives a spring 174 that biases the locking pin 170 such that a portion of the locking pin 170 extends outwardly from the locking passage 164 and engages the locking aperture 156.

When the walker assembly 100 is desired to be transported or stored, the lateral dimensions of the walker assembly 100 can be reduced by folding it into a compact configuration. Moreover, by the user first pushing up on one of the folding brackets 116a, 116b or the tie rod 118, the walking direction of the walker assembly 100 from FIGS. 1 to 3 can be achieved (where the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are opposite) The orientations of Figures 7 and 8 are folded into a substantially angular orientation relative to each other. When the tie rod 118 moves upward, the first and second rear legs 120a, 120b surround the pivot point adjacent the second ends 126a, 126b of the first and second upper members 122a, 122b, toward the first and the The two front legs 110a, 110b rotate. The first and second rear legs 120a, 120b will rotate inwardly until the frame of the walker assembly is configured in the manner shown in Figures 7 and 8, wherein the front leg assembly and the rear leg assembly are substantially aligned along the length of the frame Or at least partially aligned. The walker is shown in Figures 7 and 8, without the compartment 148, to more clearly represent the folding operation.

To further reduce the longitudinal dimension of the folding walker 100, the user can fold the lower portions 130a, 130b of the first and second rear legs 120a, 120b and the rear wheel assembly 180 associated therewith toward each other. When in this folded position, the lower portions 130a and 130b and their respective wheel assemblies 180 are arranged in substantially overlapping relationship with each other, as shown in FIG. To fold the first lower member 130a in the stowed position, the user first pulls the button 172 inward toward the centerline of the folding walker 100. In doing so, the user compresses the spring 174 and disengages the locking pin 170 from the locking aperture 156 of the upper portion 152a, as shown in Figure 6b. in After the lock pin 170 is disengaged from the lock hole 156, the lower portion 160a pivots about the axis 166 (Fig. 6c), thereby allowing the lower member 130a to be swung or pivoted, in coaxial alignment with the upper portion of the rear leg 120a as shown in Fig. 7. It becomes a storage position as described above and as shown in FIG. A similar step is performed on the second hinge assembly 150b such that the lower member 130b can swing to the storage position.

Once the user releases button 172, spring 174 causes lock pin 170 to be pushed outwardly from core 162 to a fully extended position. To lock the wheel in place for reuse, the user can pivot the first lower member 130a downward from the storage position until the locking pin 170 hits the cam surface 158, as shown in Figure 6d. As the lower member 130a continues to rotate into alignment with the upper member 122a, the locking pin 170 travels along the cam surface 158, then the spring 174 is compressed, and the button 172 is urged to move away from the lower portion 160a of the first hinge assembly 150a. Finally, due to the biasing effect of the spring 174, the locking pin 170 hits the locking aperture 156 and extends therethrough as shown in Figure 6a. After the lower member 130b has been similarly positioned, the first and second front legs 110a, 110b and the first and second rear legs 120a, 120b are urged to move outwardly away from each other, thereby causing the folding brackets 116a, 116b to become fully extended. . The lower members 130a, 130b are positioned such that the folding walker 100 is configured to assist the user in walking.

Preferably, the locking pin 170 is configured to be less likely to inadvertently disengage from the keyhole 156. For example, as shown in Figures 6a to 6d, the button 172 is shaped to have a low profile and is therefore not easily pulled or pulled during use. Moreover, preferably, the button 172 is obscured by a portion of the hinge assembly 150. As best seen in Figure 6a, the button 172 is partially obscured by the portion of the receiving shaft 166 of the hinge assembly 150a. However, the button as shown is only one embodiment, and many other shapes are also contemplated.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 9-14, which may at least partially replace the use of hinge assemblies 150A and 150B as detailed above, as illustrated in the above figures. More specifically, to make the configuration of the walker assembly 100 compact and reduce at least the longitudinal dimension of its frame, and possibly also reduce its lateral dimensions, the front and rear leg assemblies can be removed from the front and rear leg assemblies. Component. For the sake of clarity, the structure shown in Figures 9-14 presents only a single lower leg. However, it is emphasized that in describing this particular configuration, each of the front and rear legs 114A, 114B, 132A, 132B are replicas and/or structural equivalents of each other such that a description of a lower leg is made. It means that each corresponding leg structure is described. Further, member 200 defines an outwardly extending shaft that secures each front wheel structure 188 and rear wheel structure 180 thereto.

Thus, as best shown in Figures 10-13, the lateral dimension of the shaft 200 is at least minimally less than the internal transverse dimension of the lower portion 114A of the front and rear leg assemblies. This relative size enables the shaft 200 to be inserted into and removed from the interior of the lower portion 114A or the like as evidenced by comparing the unassembled and assembled structures shown in Figures 10-11 and 12, respectively. Further, the shaft 200 includes spring biased fingers 202 that are at least partially retractable inside the shaft 200 as they pass along the lower inner surface 204 of the legs 114A or the like. However, after the spring biased fingers 202 are aligned with the axial bores 206, the fingers 202 extend outwardly to releasably lock or retain the shaft 200 in the interior of the lower leg portion 114A or the like. Removal of the shaft 200 from the interior of the lower leg portion 114A or the like is accomplished by pressing the finger 202 inwardly, removing it from the aperture 206 and allowing sliding along the inner surface 204. However, once the fingers 202 are aligned with the holes 206 and from these holes Extending outwardly, the apertures 208 and 210 formed in the shaft 200 and the lower leg portion 114A, etc., respectively, are axially aligned. This axial alignment between the apertures 208 and 210 can help to connect the stop connector or bracket 220 to the desired stop position, as best seen in Figures 13 and 14.

More specifically, the stop connector or bracket 220 includes a central attachment or stop pin 222 that is spaced inwardly from the arms 224 and 226. The respective free ends of the arms 224 and 226 are arranged in spaced relation to one another such that the lower leg 114A or the like passes therethrough and into the interior 228 of the stop connector structure 220 and between the arms 224 and 226. Further, the stop connector or bracket 220 preferably includes arms 224 and 226 formed of a flexible material that can be flared outward to further facilitate the passage of the lower leg 114A or the like through the interior 208 of the stop connector 220. in. In the connected position shown in Figures 13 and 14, the stop pin 222 thus passes through the axially aligned holes 208 and 210. Moreover, the stop pin 222 is preferably of sufficient length to pass outwardly from the outermost aperture 210', as shown in Figures 13 and 14.

Additional structural features include an axially adjustable removable handle assembly that includes first and second handles 140a, 140b that are adjustably coupled to first ends 112a, 112b of each of the front legs 110a, 110b, respectively. Preferably, the first and second handles 140a, 140b are fastened to the walker assembly 100 in an easy to manipulate threaded knob 143, as are other portions of the walker 100. The first and second handles 140a, 140b are coupled to the first and second front legs 110a, 110b such that the handlebars can be adjusted axially based on the height of the user. Moreover, each of the handlebars 140a, 140b includes a lever 184 for actuating a brake 182 adjacent the rear wheel assembly 180. By urging the rod 184 upwardly toward the corresponding handlebars 140a, 140b, the cable 186 is pulled, which in turn causes the brake 182 to The rear wheel assembly 180 is engaged to prevent the folding walker 100 from rolling. Further, the levers 184 can be manipulated such that although the user no longer applies a force on the lever 184, the brake 182 is still activated.

Referring primarily to Figures 15 through 24, the present invention includes another most preferred embodiment that includes a mobile support assembly, generally indicated at 300. Moreover, as will be explained in more detail below, depending on the arrangement of at least one adjustable portion or adjustable frame segment 370 of the frame generally indicated at 302, the mobile support assembly 300 is selectively utilized as a walker or wheelchair. A large degree of versatility. For clarity, Figure 15 illustrates the orientation of the adjustable frame section 370 and other structural and operational components of the mobile support assembly 300 for use as a wheelchair. In contrast, Figures 16 and 17 illustrate the frame 302, specifically including the adjustable or adjustable frame segments 370 and the orientation of other structural and operational components of the mobile support assembly 300 for use as a walker.

More specific details include that the frame 302 includes two spaced apart side frame segments 304 and 306, each side frame segment including a substantially elliptical or "eye" shaped configuration. This configuration of each side frame segment is defined at least in part by a side frame segment 308 and a lower side frame segment 310 having an outwardly curved bow or curved configuration. As will be explained in more detail below, the side frame segments 304 and 306, and more particularly the upper side frame segment 308 and the lower side frame segment 310, may include connection structures 312, 313, 315 and 319 that facilitate The mobile support assembly 300 (particularly including portions of the frame 302) is arranged or arranged in a compact, reduced size storage orientation for storage, transport, etc., at least in part with one or more of the implementations of Figures 1-14 The example is similar. The storage orientation will be described in more detail below with reference primarily to the mobile support assembly 300 illustrated in Figures 20-24.

The mobile support assembly 300 further includes a handle assembly, generally indicated at 314, that includes two handles 316 in spaced relation to one another such that an open spacing 318 is formed therebetween for a person to be in a proper orientation so that The mobile support assembly 300 advances the mobile support assembly when used as a wheelchair as shown in FIG. 15 or as a walker as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. As will be more specifically described and described below, the spacing 302 is more readily accessible when the frame 302 or at least one or more of its structural components are selectively arranged to facilitate use of the mobile support assembly 300 as a walker.

Other features of the handle assembly 314 include: preferably, the two handles 316 each have a handle 317 that is preferably constructed in the form of a handle. Moreover, with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the handle assembly 314 can include a lever 184 for actuating one or more brake structures 182 that are operable to apply a braking force on the rear wheel assembly 320. Moreover, the brake structure 182 can be arranged in an operational relationship with the rear wheel 330 of the embodiment of Figures 15-17. Although the hand-activated or operated brake assembly is not shown in the embodiment of Figures 15-20, it can be readily adapted to be attached or mounted to the mobile support assembly 300 for hand actuation of the brake assembly 182. As described in detail with reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3. Thus, the lever 184 is moved upward toward the individual handlebars 317 for pulling the mechanical connection cable 186, which in turn engages the brake 182 with the rear wheel 330 of the rear wheel assembly 329, thereby limiting movement of the mobile support assembly 300. . When the hand actuating brake assembly or brake 182 is not used in the preferred embodiment of Figures 15-20, a foot actuating brake assembly can be used, wherein the foot actuating lever 332 is associated with a brake structure mounted or attached to each of the rear wheels 330. Union.

As also clearly depicted in FIGS. 15-17 and 20, the mobile support assembly 300 further includes a front wheel assembly 334 that includes a front wheel 336 that is coupled to the front leg, the front leg being at least partially from the lower end of the upper side frame section 308 Defined. For the sake of clarity, the frame 302 can also be described as including a rear tail and a leading portion, where the words "back tail" and "leading" are normal or conventional forwards that are referenced with reference to the mobile support assembly 300 (whether used as a walker or wheelchair). The direction. More specifically, the leading portion of the frame 302 is generally at least partially defined by the location of the front wheel assembly 334 including the front wheel 336. In contrast, the tail of the frame 302 is generally at least partially defined by the location of the handle assembly 314, the rear wheel assembly 329, and/or the rear leg 333.

To facilitate manipulation of the mobile support assembly 300, each front wheel 336 is rotatably coupled to the frame 302, more specifically to the outer or lower end of the upper side frame section 308, via a caster structure as shown in detail in FIG. More specifically, the caster base or housing 340 coupled to the axis of rotation of each wheel 336 allows the wheel to rotate properly to present the desired angular orientation of the desired moving support assembly 300 for travel in a forward, rearward or other direction. As noted above, the propulsive force applied to the handle assembly 314 can be a thrust, a pulling force, or a combination of both to achieve a desired selected direction of travel.

With further reference to FIG. 18, at least one preferred embodiment and/or structural variant of the mobile support assembly 300 includes an ankle or similar foot support assembly, generally indicated at 342. The foot support assembly 342 includes a pedal portion 344 and a support arm 346. Support arm 346 is rotatably or pivotally coupled to the lower end of the upper side frame as indicated at 308 by a rotatable connection assembly or pivot hinge, generally indicated at 348. Thus, the leg or foot support assembly 342 can be pivoted to FIG. The illustrated operational position, or folded stowed position as shown in Figure 15 (at least partially defining the storage orientation of the mobile support assembly), or pivoted out of the position. As described above, the storage orientation of the mobile support assembly 300 will be described in more detail below.

As described above, the mobile support assembly 300 is selectively used as a walker as shown in Figs. 16 and 17 or as a wheelchair as shown in Fig. 15, which promotes its versatility. Thus, referring primarily to FIG. 15, the mobile support assembly 300 includes a chair assembly, generally indicated at 350, that includes a seat 352 and a back support 354. The seat 352 is supported by at least a portion of the frame 302, more specifically by the upper (or upper) or inner (or inner) 333' of the rear leg structure 333, and other mating portions of the frame 302, such as one or more The cross brace or cross member 335 is supported. The seat 352 is coupled to the frame 302 in the manner described so as to be securely supported on the frame 302 until or unless the seat assembly 350 is detached or detached from the frame 302.

In contrast, the back support 354 is preferably movably or pivotally attached around the lower engagement or attachment region 360 that is generally opposite the seat 352 and the back support 354 of the back support 354. The joint is adjacent to each of the lower corners. Moreover, when the adjustable portion or adjustable frame segment 370 is disposed in the first orientation as shown in Figures 16 and 17, the back support 354 can be positioned in the orientation also shown in Figures 16 and 17. Thus, the first orientation of the adjustable frame segment 370 facilitates or enables the mobile support assembly 300 to be used as a walker as shown. In contrast, the adjustable frame segment 370 can be disposed in the second orientation illustrated in FIG. 15 with the adjustable frame segments 370 disposed substantially aligned with the handle assembly 314 and within the spacing 318 between the respective spaced handles 316 .

The mobile support assembly of the present invention includes another structure that facilitates secure, but removably positioning of the adjustable frame segments 370 in respective first and second orientations. More specifically, referring primarily to Figures 16, 21 and 24, each armrest structure 380 includes an outer end, generally indicated at 390, having an indented region 392 adapted to form outwardly and/or at 394. Or a lip or similar structure that protrudes to the side. As best shown in FIG. 16, each of the inwardly projecting end portions 390 of the oppositely disposed spaced apart armrests 380 are disposed in an interrupted relationship with the opposite sides of the adjustable frame segments 370. Thus, when the frame segment 370 is in the first orientation described above, the sides will abut against the protruding lip 394 of the inwardly extending or projecting end 390 of each armrest 380 and will be stopped through the protruding lip. With further reference to Figure 16, by providing an outwardly extending hook-like bracket or similar structure 396, as shown in Figure 20, the adjustable frame section 370 remains in the second orientation. Each bracket 396 is attached to one of the two spaced side members of the adjustable frame section 370. Further, each bracket 396 is arranged to engage the lower side frame 310 near its upper end as indicated by 310'. Thus, when the adjustable frame segment 370 is in the second orientation, the outwardly extending brackets 396 each engage the upper end 310' of the corresponding position of the lower side frame segment 310 to substantially align the adjustable frame segment 370 with the handle 316. It remains between the handles 316.

It is also emphasized that the configuration, size and placement of the armrest 380 determines the position and/or angular tilt of the adjustable frame segment 370 when in the first orientation described above, such as when the mobile support assembly 300 is used as a walker. It is further emphasized that the hook-like bracket 396 can be in a variety of different structural configurations, such as a U-shaped structure having inherent flexibility or bias to be effectively clipped or otherwise removably attached to the above as described above. The upper end 310' of the lower side frame segment 310.

Thus, the first orientation of the adjustable frame segment 370 is defined by: The rim section faces the leading portion of the frame 302, away from the rear tail of the frame and the handle assembly 314, oriented substantially inwardly angularly. The first orientation of the adjustable frame section 370 is further defined by the following manner: when the back support 354 is disposed to face the seat 352 (as clearly shown in Figures 16 and 17), the adjustable frame section is in the seat The 352 and the back support 354 are substantially in a top-down relationship. Thus, when the mobile support assembly 300 is intended to function as a walker, the adjustable frame section 370 in the first orientation allows access to the outer surface of the back support 354 via the spacing 318. Thus, the back support 354 can be used as a temporary seat or similar support area where an individual can rest on a seating position. At the same time, a cushion or pad 372 can be attached to the upper end of the adjustable portion or frame section 370 to give the person a backrest when a person is supported on the back support member 354 in a seated orientation.

Referring primarily to Figure 15, when the adjustable frame section 370 is in the second orientation, it is disposed uprightly within the spacing 318 in an aligned relationship with the handle assembly 314 and the spaced apart handles 316. Similarly, the back support 354 is disposed in a straight cubic position as shown and, when in the second orientation, can be at least partially supported on or supported by the adjustable frame segment 370. Thus, the chair assembly 350 is easily accessible, thereby enabling and facilitating the use of the mobile support assembly as a wheelchair as described above.

Other structural and operational features that are at least partially similar to the embodiment of Figures 1-4 include vertically adjusting or removing the handle assembly 314 by facilitating vertical adjustment of each handle 316. Thus, the elongated portion of the handle 316 can include a plurality of apertures, such as indicated at 319, each of which can accommodate a spring biased locking member disposed within the elongated portion 316' of the handle 316, or within the upper end 310' of the lower side frame segment 310. 321, to facilitate vertical adjustment of the handle or handle portion 317. Figure 24 shows Structural variations of the handle assembly 314 and associated portions of the frame. As disclosed, each handle 316 can be coupled thereto in an immediate relationship with the upper end 310' of the lower side frame section 310, rather than being axially aligned as shown in Figures 16, 19 and 20. In any structural variation, the handles 316 can be adjusted vertically or longitudinally along their respective lengths to accommodate different individuals, placing the individual in a position that can advance the mobile support assembly 300 in any preferred direction. Figures 16 and 17 further illustrate adjustable features of the handle assembly 314, wherein each handle 316 is at a different height. Disengagement of the biasing locking member 321 from any of the apertures 319 allows the handle 316 to be completely removed from the frame.

As described above, the present invention demonstrates significant versatility by structuring its versatile construction and its various components to facilitate easy and rapid placement of the mobile support assembly 300 in a storage orientation. Thus, it will be explained in more detail below that the various components can be selectively placed in a compact orientation from their normal operating orientation (whether the mobile support assembly 300 is used as a walker or a wheelchair) to at least partially define the storage orientation.

For example, the rear leg 333 and the rear wheel 330 associated therewith are adjustably interconnected with the remainder of the frame 302, and more specifically, with the frame segment 333' for at least partially supporting the seat 352. . The adjustable, moveable interconnection is achieved by providing a hinged connector structure 319 that allows the rear leg 333 to be folded inwardly to the seat 352 substantially at the seat 352, or frame 302. Below the associated section.

It is further illustrated in Figures 22-24 that portions or components of the frame 302 are selectively positioned in the storage orientation described above. As shown in the figures, the storage orientation can also be defined, at least in part, by: a back support 354, The rim section 70, the handle 316, and the upper ends 308' and 310' of the upper side frame section 308 and the lower side frame section 310 are respectively arranged in a predetermined relationship to each other, which will be explained in more detail below. More specifically, and with reference to Figure 24, the fixed interconnection of the frame 302 includes an armrest 380 coupled to the upper end 308' of the upper side frame segment and supported by the upper end, and an upper end 310' of the lower side frame segment and correspondingly positioned Handle 316. The set of components represents a "subunit" of the frame 302 that can be collectively positioned between the operational orientation shown in Figure 20 and the stowed position shown in Figure 22, wherein the various portions of the frame 302 are in the storage orientation described above. .

In order to achieve a compact position of the subunit shown in Fig. 24, a plurality of connectors 313 and 315 are arranged and constructed for movably or adjustably connecting the subunit of Fig. 24 to the remainder of the frame 302. More specifically, as shown in Figure 23, the connector 312 is separable and includes removable attachment portions 313' and 313". The secure but removable connection or attachment of the connection segments 313' and 313" The connection can be achieved by using a stop connector or bracket 220 as disclosed and described in detail with reference to the embodiment of Figures 9-14. Thus, the central member or shaft 222 associated with the separate stop connector 220 passes through the aperture 312 formed in the connecting section 313' and extends into the interior of the segment 313". When connected in Figure 23 Or when the position has been assembled, the arms 224 and 226 of the respective respective one of the stop links 220 will thereafter surround the segments 313' and 313". Removal of the stop link 220 will allow the segments 313' and 313 to be separated, wherein as disclosed in Figure 22, the segments 313" are fixedly or integrally connected to the upper end 308' of the upper frame segment. Furthermore, as clearly shown in Fig. 22, a hinged connector 315 is constructed such that when the back support 354 and the adjustable frame segment 370 are disposed in a top view and/or face relationship with the seat 352, the lower side frame segment The upper end 310' of the 310 pivots inwardly with the seat The 352 and back support 354 and the adjustable frame section 370 are in a top view relationship.

It will be appreciated that FIG. 22 only discloses one of the subunits shown in FIG. 24 that is disposed in a compact position. However, Figure 22 is intended to illustrate the structural and operational features of the two oppositely disposed subunits shown in Figure 24 on opposite sides of the mobile support assembly 300. Thus, the two sub-units of Figure 24 are pivoted inwardly or foldable into a compact position to at least partially define the storage position described above.

It will also be appreciated that the adjustable frame segments 370 generally or typically remain in their first orientation through the inwardly projecting lip 394 of the end 390 of each armrest 380, as shown in FIG. However, in order for the adjustable frame segment 370 to assume the position shown in FIG. 22, the armrest 380 can be forced to move outwardly by at least a minimum distance such that the side 370' of the adjustable frame segment 370 can pass inward of each of the armrests 380 The protruding end 390 is in the folded or stowed position shown in FIG.

Certain components or portions of the frame 302 are selectively and efficiently disposed in the stowed position to define a storage orientation in which the dimensions are significantly reduced, thereby facilitating storage or transportation of the mobile support assembly 300. Moreover, the overall configuration and size of the mobile support assembly 300 is significantly reduced to allow for placement in a small storage or suitcase or container that has the mobile support assembly 300 effectively positioned in a stored orientation. And sizes that are efficiently stored or transported.

Another most preferred embodiment of the invention includes a mobile support assembly, generally in the form of a walker assembly, generally indicated at 400. The mobile support assembly 400 includes a frame, generally indicated at 402, that is configured to include a seat 142 that is clearly disclosed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 and an attachment box 148 that is located below the seat 142. In order to clearly and accurately describe each of the frames 402 For the components, the seat 142 and the case 148 are not shown in FIGS. 25 to 27. However, it should be emphasized that as will become apparent below, the entire frame structure is clearly adapted to the storage seat 142, the box 148 and the armrest portion 146. More specifically, the seat 142 is designed to be coupled or partially supported on the beam 404 through a tie bar as shown in Figures 1-3, or through other suitable attachment structures. Thus, the box 148 will be located below the seat 142 and in some attachment relationship with the seat 142 between the beams 404.

Further, the frame 402 includes a back support member 406 that is mounted on the back support member. The frame also includes a front wheel assembly, generally indicated at 408, and a rear wheel assembly, generally indicated at 410. As with the embodiment of Figures 1-3, the front leg assembly 408 includes two spaced apart legs 409 that have different sizes and/or configurations relative to the embodiment of Figures 1-3.

More specifically, each leg 409 includes an elongated upper portion or main portion 409' and a lower portion 412 that is fixedly or integrally connected. As best seen in Figures 25-27, the upper portion 409' is oriented at an angle relative to the lower portion 412. Further, when the frame 402 is disposed in an upright operational orientation as shown in the figures, the lower portion 412 is disposed in a substantially upright or at least partially vertical orientation. In contrast, the two spaced apart legs 411 at least partially define the rear leg assembly 410. The rear leg 411 differs from the front leg 409 in size and configuration in that the rear leg has a substantially linear elongated configuration with a longitudinal dimension that is greater than the total length of the front leg 409. Thus, each of the rear legs 411 includes a lower portion 413 that is axially aligned with its main or upper portion.

As described above, as shown in Figs. 25 to 27, the frame 402 does not include the respective front wheel assembly 420 and rear wheel assembly 420'. Referring specifically to Figure 28, as shown in Figures 1 to 3 Similarly shown in the example, legs 409 and 411 each include a front wheel assembly 420 and a rear wheel assembly that are coupled to respective lower portions 412 and 413, respectively. The wheel assemblies 420' each have an elongated connecting shaft 200' and a suitably sized wheel structure 422. Moreover, the front legs 409 of the front leg assembly 408 each include a wheel assembly 420 that is secured to a lower portion 412 thereof. Similarly, the rear legs 411 each include a separate wheel assembly 420' that is coupled to a lower portion 413 thereof. Thus, it can be said that the support assembly 400 has a front wheel assembly defined by two wheel assemblies 420 and a rear portion defined by the other two wheel assemblies 420' that are coupled to the lower portions 412 and 413 of the respective front and rear legs 409, 411, 411. Wheel assembly.

One feature of the walker of the mobile support assembly 400 is the ability to efficiently adjust the height of the frame 402 relative to any of the support surfaces on which the frame 402 is positioned as shown in Figures 25-27. Thus, regardless of whether the user/individual is standing relative to the support assembly 400 or sitting on the seat 142, changing the height of the frame 402 relative to any support surface facilitates personal use of different heights and sizes. Removably removably coupled to respective lower portions 412 and 413 of front leg 409 and rear leg 411 through front wheel assembly 420 and rear wheel assembly 420', and each wheel structure 422 associated therewith, effecting frame 402 This variable height adjustment.

For the sake of clarity, the structure shown in Figures 30-32 is used to depict a single lower leg in the lower legs 412 and 413. However, it should be emphasized that in depicting the particular structure, both the front leg 409 and the rear leg 411 are replicas of each other, at least in terms of establishing a tunable interconnection with a respective one of the wheel structure 422 and the associated shaft 200'. Product or structural equivalent. Thus, the description of one lower leg 412 or 413 means that each respective leg structure is depicted.

Accordingly, the lateral dimension of each shaft 200' is at least minimally less than the internal transverse dimension of the lower portions 412 and 413 of the front and rear legs 409, 411. This relative dimension allows the shaft 200' to be inserted into and removed from the interior of the lower portions 412 and 413, as shown by comparing the unassembled and assembled structures shown in Figures 30-32, respectively. Further, the shaft 200' includes spring biased fingers 202' that are at least partially retractable inside the shaft 200' as they pass along the inner surfaces 204' of the lower portions 412 and 413 of the front and rear legs. However, after the spring biased fingers 202' are aligned with the axial bores 206', the fingers 202' extend outwardly to releasably lock or retain the shaft 200' in the interior of the lower portions 412 and 413. Removal of the shaft 200' from the interior of the lower portions 412 and 413 is achieved by pressing the finger 202' inwardly, removing it from the aperture 206' and allowing sliding along the inner surface 204'. Once the fingers 202' are aligned with and extend outwardly from the apertures 206', the apertures 208' and 210' formed in the shaft 200' and the lower portions 412 and 413, respectively, are axially aligned. This axial alignment between the apertures 208' and 210' can help to connect the stop connector or bracket 220' to the desired stop position, as shown in FIG.

By virtue of the adjustable variable connection as shown in Figures 30 to 32, the frame 402 can be easily changed or adjusted, for example, as shown in the figure, by placing the fingers 202' in different holes or pairs of holes 206'. The height at the operating position shown in 25 to 27 is suitable for users of various sizes and heights. To facilitate adjustment of the frame 402 to different heights, the lower portions 412 and 413 or other portions of the legs 409 and 411 include a plurality of such pairs of apertures 206'. Accordingly, the respective wheel assemblies 420 and 420' can extend outwardly and along the length of each of the legs 409 of the front leg assembly 408 and the legs 411 of the rear leg assembly 410. This variable outward extension is schematically represented in Figure 28 by direction arrow 430.

Referring primarily to Figure 29, a stop connector or bracket 220' is arranged and constructed to securely but removably retain the wheel assemblies 420 and 420' and the respective legs 409 of the front and rear leg assemblies 408 and 410. The expected connection between 411. Thus, the stop connector 220' includes a central connecting pin 222' that is spaced apart on the interior of the arms 224' and 226'. This embodiment is structurally different but functionally similar to the stop connector or bracket 220 shown in FIG. Thus, any of the embodiments of the attachment bracket can be used with one or more of the different preferred embodiments of the invention as described herein.

More specifically, the arms 224' and 226' have sufficient longitudinal dimensions to encircle a portion of the front and rear legs as indicated by 412, 413 to assemble the shaft 200' and legs as shown in Figures 29 and 32. At 412, 413, the connecting pin 222 is further facilitated as the connecting pin 222' extends through the aligned hole 210' formed in the leg 412, 413 and the hole 208' formed in the shaft 200'. 'Put in its intended stop position. In addition, the respective free ends of the arms 224' and 226' include a connector or latch structure 415 that enables the free ends to be removably coupled to each other. The detent structure 415 is provided at the free end to further maintain the stop connector or bracket 220' in its intended operational position. Moreover, in the operative position of Fig. 29, as described above, the stop pin 222' serves to prevent the shaft 200' from being inadvertently removed or relatively positioned from the desired stop position within the respective leg 412, 413.

Another feature of the invention is illustrated in Figures 33 and 34. More specifically, the mobile support assembly 400 and frame 402 include a bracket assembly, generally indicated at 450. The bracket assembly 450 is removably interconnected between the front leg assembly 408 and the rear leg assembly 410. In the most preferred embodiment, as shown in Figures 25 to 27, There are two such bracket assemblies 450. However, the mobile support assembly 400, primarily in the form of a retractable walker assembly, may include only a single bracket assembly 450, and is also within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

When the frame 402 is in the operative position, the bracket assembly 450 assumes a substantially elongated linear configuration, including the bracket segments 454 and 456 being arranged in substantially linearly aligned relationship with each other. Further, the respective outer distal ends of the stent segments 454 and 456 are pivotally or otherwise movably coupled to respective legs 409 and 411 of the front leg assembly 408 and the rear leg assembly 410, respectively. The respective correspondingly positioned inner proximal ends of the stent segments 454 and 456 are pivotally or otherwise movably coupled to each other via a pivot or chain pin 459.

Moreover, when the frame 402 is arranged in a storage orientation from the operational position shown in Figures 25-27 and 33, the stent segments 454 and 456 will assume a folded position. As indicated by directional arrow 460, the upward movement through bracket assembly 450 more specifically illustrates its folded position. Thus, when in a fully stowed storage orientation, the front leg assembly 408 and the rear leg assembly 410 are disposed in somewhat aligned or at least coextensive positions that are clearly shown in the embodiments of Figures 7 and 8. In this storage orientation, the stent segments 454 and 456 will also be somewhat aligned as shown in Figure 34 and arranged in a mutually coextensive relationship. To maintain the bracket assembly 450, and more particularly the bracket segments 454 and 456 in the folded position, thereby maintaining the frame 402 in its stowed orientation, a locking assembly, generally designated 452, is provided.

The locking assembly 452 includes a female member or recess 462 that includes a flange having an aperture 462' that is coupled to one of the bracket segments as represented by 454 and movable with the bracket segment. The locking assembly 452 further includes a raised or convex member 464 that includes a finger or pin 464', Another stent segment, as indicated by 456, is received in the two stent segments and is movable with the stent segment. When the bracket assembly 450 is in the linearly aligned operational position shown in Figure 33, the recess 462 and the projection 464 are arranged in spaced relation to each other. However, when the bracket assembly 450 is configured to allow the frame 402 to assume a stored orientation, the bracket segments 454 and 456 will be disposed at at least partially co-extensive positions as shown in FIG. In such a position, the recesses 462 will be substantially aligned with the projections 464 such that they can enter a stop engagement that is movable relative to each other.

More specifically, the recess 462 includes a perforated flange and the projection 464 includes a spring biased retractable finger 464'. When the aperture 462' is arranged in an aligned relationship with the attachment or stop finger 464', as indicated by the directional arrow 465, the projection 464 is manipulated in a reversible or retractable manner to actuate the stop finger 464' acts through the aperture 462'. Thus, the recess 462 and the projection 464 are removably coupled together to help retain the stent segments 454 and 456 in the folded position. When held in place, the front leg portion 408 and the rear leg portion 410 are "locked" in the storage orientation. To redirect the frame 402, and more particularly the front leg portion 408 and the rear leg portion 410, in their operative position as shown in FIG. 33, manual manipulation of the spring biased projection 464 can be achieved, at least to the stop finger 464' The extent of removal from the aperture 462', thereby releasing the stent segments 454 and 456 from each other and allowing them to assume an operational linear configuration.

Many variations and modifications of the above-described embodiments of the foldable walkers 100 and 400 and the multi-purpose mobile support assembly 300 can be made without departing from the spirit, principles and intended scope of these embodiments. Since many variations, changes, and modifications of the preferred embodiments of the present invention are possible, all of the above description and the accompanying drawings are to be construed as illustrative. Without limit. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Referring primarily to Figures 35-39, another preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present invention is generally indicated at 500. Thus, the mobile support assembly 500 includes a frame assembly, generally indicated at 502, that includes two laterally spaced side members 504 and 506. Each of the side members can have an elongated frame section 508 that extends at least a majority of the length of the corresponding side members 504 and 506. The respective lower or support ends of the frame segments 508 include a furcation structure or configuration, such as indicated at 510, coupled to the support wheels.

More specifically, the support wheel includes a front wheel assembly, generally indicated at 512, and a rear wheel assembly, generally indicated at 514. Front wheel assembly 512 and rear wheel assembly 514 are each coupled to respective lower bifurcations 510' and 510" of frame section 508 of each side assembly 504 and 506. As described in more detail herein with respect to Figures 13 and 14, the transmission bracket is attached Or similar member 220 implements a removable connection as clearly shown in Fig. 36. A preferred feature of front wheel assembly 512 is in the form of a caster, wherein connecting rod 513 is used to movably and rotatably each caster 514' And/or pivotally coupled to the mounting hub 516. Whether the person uses the mobile support assembly 500 as a walker in a standing orientation or as a moving chair in a seated orientation, at the front of the mobile support assembly 500, The use of casters on the rear or front guide facilitates steering and steering.

In particular (but not exclusively), the frame assembly 502 includes a pair of handle structures 520 for proper steering and/or manipulation of the mobile support assembly 500 when a person is in a standing orientation. Each handle structure 520 is adjustably and possibly removably coupled to a respectively arranged frame segment 508. Therefore, moving the support assembly 500 The user can cause each handle 520 to rise or fall independently of each other. This helps to extend each handle assembly 520 outwardly from the remainder of the frame assembly 502 a sufficient distance to accommodate a person's height, body, etc., particularly in the walking orientation. Further, the handle structures 520 can each include a handle 520' and a brake controller 520" that can be manipulated by a person's respective hand to facilitate braking of the mobile support assembly 500 during movement. Further, the transmission includes more An elongated rod or similar member of the aperture or slot 522' can selectively vary the height or outward distance of the 522 handle structure 520 from the remainder of the frame assembly 502. The slot or aperture 522' is disposed or configured and mounted. The spring-loaded connectors and/or adjustment knobs of the handle 524 on each of the frame segments 508 associated with each of the side members 504 and 506 interact.

The laterally adjustable and/or selectively positionable side members 504 and 506 are movably interconnected to each other by an adjustment linkage generally indicated at 540. More specifically, the adjustment linkage 540 includes two elongated link members 542 and 544, each link member including a first opposite end 546 and a second opposite end 548. As shown in all of these figures, each of the first and second opposing ends 546, 548 associated with each of the elongated link members 542 and 544 are movably coupled to a different one of the side members, either directly or indirectly. On 504 and 506. More specifically, the respective first opposite ends 546 of the links 542 and 544 are directly coupled to one of the side assemblies 504 and 506 through a substantially pivotal connection 549. In contrast, the respective second opposite ends 548 of the link members 542 and 544 are movably or pivotable through the respective correspondingly positioned attachment links 550 and one of the side assemblies 504 and 506. Switch to ground. Further, the respective ends of the second opposite ends 548 and one of the frames 502 The side mounts or similar portions 551 of the seat 554 associated with the chair assembly, generally indicated at 552, are connected in a direct support relationship. As also shown, when in the operational orientation, the respective second ends 548 of the link members 542 and 544, although not actually engaged with the respective side members 504 and 506, enter a relationship with the side members. Because the second end pushes the seat ends 551 outwardly away from each other.

Referring primarily to Figure 35, the mobile support assembly 500 and frame assembly 502 are shown in operational positions. In contrast, Figures 38 and 39 illustrate the orientation in which the mobile support assembly 500 and the frame assembly 502 are at least partially stowed. Accordingly, the stowed orientation is defined at least in part by the manner in which the elongated link members 542 and 544 are arranged to be longitudinally aligned or oriented substantially adjacent to one another. The stowed orientation of the frame assembly 502 can also be described as being separate from or spaced apart from each other by the first opposing ends 546 of the side members 504 and 506 as compared to when the frame assembly 502 is in the operational orientation. Similarly, in the stowed orientation of the frame assembly 502, the respective second opposing ends 548 of the side members 504 and 506 are arranged spaced apart or spaced apart from each other as compared to when the frame assembly 502 is in the operational orientation. In contrast, the operational orientations of Figures 35 and 37 show the elongated link members 542 and 544 in a laterally extended or deployed orientation. Thus, when in the operational orientation, the two side members 504 and 506 are disposed in a maximum laterally spaced relationship to each other. In contrast, the side members 504 and 506 are compared to the arrangement when the side members 504 and 506 are in the maximum laterally spaced relationship of the operational orientations of FIGS. 1 and 3 in the stowed or at least partially stowed orientation. Arranged in spaced apart relationship that is substantially adjacent to one another but in close proximity.

The term "maximum lateral separation" used here is intended to describe the framework The maximum distance that link members 542 and 544 can laterally extend when side members 504 and 506 are separated from each other when assembly 502 is in the operational orientation. The "maximum lateral separation" relationship of the operational orientation of the frame assembly 502 can also be described as the first opposing ends 546 of the side members 504 and 506 being spaced apart from each other by a greater distance or compared to the frame assembly 502 being in the stowed orientation. The "maximum" distance is arranged. Similarly, the "maximum lateral separation" relationship of the operational orientation of the frame assembly 502 can also be described as being the second opposite end 548 of the side members 504 and 506 being also arranged as compared to when the frame assembly 502 is in the stowed orientation. Separate from each other by a large distance or "maximum" distance. Thus, as with the side assemblies 504 and 506 to which the link members 542 and 544 are adjustably attached, the first and second opposite ends 546, 548 of the link members 542 and 544 are disposed at a maximum lateral spacing from one another.

Referring to Figure 36, as previously described, front wheel assembly 512 and rear wheel assembly 514 are each removably coupled to frame 502. Thus, the stowed orientation described above can also be at least partially defined by the side members 504 and 506 being substantially adjacent or at least partially adjacent laterally spaced apart relationship, and the wheel assemblies 512 and 514 and possibly the handle assembly 520. Delimited by the rest of the frame 502.

With regard to the chair assembly 552, the seat 554 is interconnected between the side members 504 and 506 and is supported by the respective second opposite ends 548 of the elongated link members 542 and 544 in an outwardly extending orientation. Similarly, the backrest, generally designated 555, has opposite ends that are adjustably or fixedly coupled to different ones of the side members 504 and 506. Thus, when the side members 504 and 506 are disposed in their maximum laterally spaced relationship due to the lateral expansion or extension of the interconnected elongated links 542 and 544, sufficient tension is placed on the backrest 555 to At Support the back or other appropriate part when seating.

Likewise, a compartment, generally indicated at 560, is disposed adjacent the front of the frame 502 adjacent the adjustable linkage 540 that includes the two elongated link members 542 and 544. As also indicated, the storage bin 560 is also disposed substantially forward in a support relationship on the respective bifurcations 510' of the side members 504 and 506. Further, the support box 560 can have an open top or inlet 562. To facilitate selective placement of the mobile support assembly 500 in the stowed position, the seat 554, the backrest 555, and the storage compartment 560 can each be formed from a flexible material. Thus, the inwardly substantially adjacent proximal spacing between the sides 504 and 506 can cause the seat 554, the backrest 555, and the compartment 560 to be effectively stowed or at least partially folded, as at least partially in FIG. And shown in Figure 39.

Since many variations, changes, and modifications of the preferred embodiments of the present invention are possible, the invention in the above description and the accompanying drawings are to be construed as illustrative and not limiting. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

The invention has been described.

Claims (18)

A mobile support assembly constructed for personal activity, the mobile support assembly comprising: a frame assembly configured for selective positioning between an operational orientation and a stowed orientation, the frame assembly including two sides a subassembly, each side assembly including a support wheel coupled thereto, an adjustable linkage mechanism that moves the two side assemblies relative to each other in both the operative and stowed orientations Interconnected, the operational orientation comprising: the two side members are at a maximum lateral spacing from one another while being interconnected by the adjustable linkage, and the stowed orientation comprises: being in the operational orientation The two side assemblies are spaced closer to each other and are disposed substantially adjacently than the maximum lateral spacing of the two side assemblies, wherein the adjustable linkage includes two An elongated link member, each elongated link member having a first opposite end and a second opposite end movably coupled to different ones of the two side assemblies, wherein in the operational orientation and stowed Between orientations The first opposite end of each of the elongated link members is pivotally coupled to one of the two side assemblies and movable with the respective side assembly, and wherein The opposite ends each include an outer end that is movable to a respective one of the two side assemblies Facing the relationship and disengaging the relationship, the two side components are arranged in the operational orientation and out of the operational orientation. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the operational orientation further comprises the adjustable linkage being disposed in a laterally extended orientation while interconnected with the two side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 2, wherein the stowed orientation further comprises the adjustable linkage being disposed in a longitudinally extending orientation. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the stowed orientation further comprises the adjustable linkage being disposed in a longitudinally extending orientation. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the two elongated link members are movably coupled to another intermediate one of the first and second opposing ends. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the adjustable linkage further comprises a movably interconnecting between each of the second ends and a respective one of the two side assemblies The attached attachment link is attached. The mobile support assembly of claim 6, wherein the two elongated link members are movably coupled to the other intermediate respective end of the opposite ends. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the support wheel comprises a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly coupled to each of the two side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 8, wherein the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly are each movably coupled to the two side assemblies a respective side assembly; the stowed orientation further comprising at least one of the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly being disconnected from a respective one of the two side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 1 wherein each of the two side members includes a handle structure adjustably coupled thereto; each of the handle structures being compliant from a respective one of the two side assemblies The side members extend outwardly for a selectively variable distance. The mobile support assembly of claim 10, wherein each of the handle structures is removably coupled to a respective one of the side assemblies; the stowed orientation further comprising at least one of the handle structures A handle structure is disconnected from a respective one of the side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 1, wherein the adjustable linkage mechanism comprises two elongated link members, each link member having a different side movably coupled to the two side assemblies a first opposite end and a second opposite end of the assembly; the maximum lateral spacing of the two side assemblies comprising the first opposite end and the second opposite end of the two elongated link members The operational orientations are arranged at a greater spacing from one another than in the stowed orientation. A mobile support assembly constructed for personal activity, the mobile support assembly comprising: a frame assembly configured for selective positioning between an operational orientation and a stowed orientation, the frame assembly including two sides a component, each side assembly including a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly coupled thereto, An adjustable linkage mechanism comprising two elongated link members pivotally coupled to each other at an intermediate opposite end, each of the elongated link members including a first opposite end and a second opposite end, wherein Between the operational orientation and the stowed orientation, each of the opposite ends is movably coupled to a different one of the two side assemblies and movable with the different side assemblies The operational orientation includes a maximum lateral spacing of the two side assemblies relative to each other, and the adjustable linkage mechanism is disposed in a laterally extending orientation, the stowed orientation including with the two side assemblies The two side assemblies are disposed substantially adjacent to each other at a relatively proximal interval as compared to the maximum lateral spacing of the operational orientation, and the stowed orientation further includes the two elongated link members Arranging a substantially longitudinally extending and adjacent orientation along a length thereof, wherein the first opposite end of each of the elongated link members is pivotally coupled between the operational orientation and the stowed orientation In the two side assemblies a respective side assembly movable with the respective side assembly, and wherein the second opposite ends each include an outer end movable to one of the two side assemblies The respective side members are in a facing relationship and disengaged from the facing relationship, while the two side members are arranged in the operational orientation and out of the operational orientation. The mobile support assembly of claim 13, wherein the adjustable linkage mechanism further comprises at each of the second end and the two side assemblies Attachment links that are movably interconnected between respective ones of the middle assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 13, wherein the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly are each movably coupled to one of the two side assemblies; the stowed orientation further comprising the At least one of the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly is disconnected from a respective one of the two side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 13 wherein each of the two side members includes a handle structure adjustably coupled thereto; each of the handle structures being compliant from a respective one of the two side assemblies The side members extend outwardly for a selectively variable distance. The mobile support assembly of claim 16, wherein each of the handle structures is removably coupled to a respective one of the side assemblies; the stowed orientation further comprising at least one of the handle structures A handle structure is disconnected from a respective one of the side assemblies. The mobile support assembly of claim 13, wherein the maximum lateral spacing of the two side assemblies comprises the first opposite end and the second opposite end of the link member in the operation The orientation ratios are arranged at a larger interval from each other in the stowed orientation.