HK1221694B - Devices for mobility assistance and infusion management - Google Patents

Description

Devices for mobility assistance and fluid management

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/947,809 (91-13P1), filed on March 4, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/880,644 (91-13P), filed on September 20, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/856,431 (173-06P1), filed on July 19, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to the extent not inconsistent with this application.

Background Art

The present invention generally relates to the field of mobile supports that can be folded into a compact storage configuration and have specific applications in the medical field, including providing mobility assistance to people connected to infusion pumps and accompanying medical components. Therefore, the device is useful as a mobility assistance device for people in medical settings. As discussed in U.S. Patents No. 8,136,773 and No. 8,534,616, it is important for patients to be able to walk after medical procedures, even when they are connected to medical components. However, walking patients present some special safety issues in ensuring that the support pole is stable and does not fall over or get in the way of the patient or caregiver when it moves with the patient. This safety issue is not fully addressed by current IV poles that have a vertical pole connected to a wheeled base. There remains a need in the art to easily and reliably secure relatively heavy components and other lighter but necessary components (e.g., IV fluids) to the device in a manner that allows ready access to the components attached to the IV pole. Because many patients also require external oxygen support, there is also a need to reliably secure the oxygen source in a reliable manner without adversely affecting the patient or the maneuverability of the device. Furthermore, electrical power is typically required to power any one or more components connected to a mobility assistance device. The device disclosed herein achieves these goals while further improving device stability and maneuverability for users who are connected to medical components and pushing the device around. Furthermore, the device provided herein can be folded into an extremely compact configuration when not in use.

Summary of the Invention

Provided herein is a mobility assistance device (also referred to herein as an infusion management system or IMS) that is particularly suitable for facilitating safe and reliable ambulation of a person connected to the device, such as a patient receiving medical treatment including IV infusion. The device provided herein specifically addresses the needs of healthcare providers and enhances patient care while promoting safe patient ambulation. Advantages of the device provided herein include improved patient and personnel safety due to the device's superior stability, safety, and comfort. All of these advantages minimize the risks and costs associated with patient falls. The device provides easier, faster, and more reliable ambulation to facilitate recovery and minimize the risk of falls. Furthermore, because the device allows one caregiver to perform the work currently performed by two or three caregivers using conventional systems, it reduces healthcare provider workload and saves time. When not in use, the device easily folds into a storage configuration. It can be stored under furniture (such as a bed) or secured against a vertical surface. This keeps rooms tidy and mobility areas clear, and also contributes to facility compliance.

On the one hand, the mobility assisting device includes a column having a top, a bottom and an outer surface extending between the top and the bottom. A base is connected to the column, and the base includes a first base leg and a second base leg to form a double-sided base footprint (footprint), such as, connected to the column at one end of each of the first base leg and the second base leg. This connection area is referred to as a "vertex area" in this article. On the one hand, in embodiments in which the base legs are connected near the bottom of the column, the vertex area is toward the bottom of the column or at the bottom of the column. On the one hand, the vertex area can extend above the bottom portion of the column, such as, for the case of base legs connected at a longitudinal distance from the bottom of the column. The vertex area can have a smooth and gently curved outer circumference, thereby minimizing or avoiding sharp corners that can get caught or cause injury. The column and the base footprint form a column angle, wherein the column angle is an acute angle so that at least a portion of the column extends within an area extending vertically from the double-sided base footprint. In contrast, if the post is straight and linear and at right angles to the base, the post is considered to not extend within the area extending vertically from the double-sided base footprint. A rod is connected to the post for securing a medical component, wherein the rod has a longitudinal axis or outer surface separated by a spacing distance from the outer surface of the post. The rod is particularly suitable for securing or clamping an infusion pump in a manner that provides ease of use, readability, and attachment without sacrificing device stability and maneuverability. A mobility handle is connected to the post, the base, or the apex region. The specific attachment point is not critical, as long as device stability is maintained during ambulation. In one aspect, one or more mobility handles are connected to the post.

To facilitate maneuverability of the device, a first wheel is connected to the first base leg, a second wheel is connected to the second base leg, and a third wheel is connected to the apex region. Optionally, a fourth wheel is connected to the apex region. Each of the wheels is configured and positioned to stably contact a support surface on which the device rests, and the mobility handle is configured to receive an applied force to stably move the device over the support surface. Thus, in one aspect, the wheels are positioned at a base leg end that is separated from the apex region by a distance that is at least 80%, at least 90%, or substantially the entire longitudinal length of the base leg.

In one aspect, the rod is extendable to provide a rod tip that controllably extends from the top of the column. This is useful in embodiments where the rod also supports one or more medical components at the top of the rod and where it is desired to position these medical components at different heights depending on operating conditions.

In one aspect, the rod is generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the column, the outer surface of the column, or both. For example, when the outer surface of the column is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column, the rod can be parallel to the outer surface of the column. Conversely, when the outer surface of the column is curved, the rod can match the longitudinal axis of the column rather than the curve of the outer surface of the column. "Longitudinal axis" refers to the axis of the central portion of the longitudinally extending member. Alternatively, the rod can also be curved to match the curve of the outer surface of the column. On the other hand, the rod can have a curve that does not match the surface of the column, such as to provide a caregiver with a handle to help control the movement of the device or place the medical component in a desired position.

Alternatively, the rod is generally vertical relative to the two-sided base footprint and is positioned within an area extending vertically from the two-sided base footprint. In this embodiment, the rod can be connected to a portion of the column that is itself positioned within an area extending vertically from the base legs to maintain good stability.

In one aspect, the rod is connected to a top portion of the column and/or a bottom portion of the column. For example, the connection between the rod and the top portion of the column can include a top connector extending from the top end of the column and having a passage for receiving the rod.

In one embodiment, the rod comprises an upper rod portion and a lower rod portion, wherein the upper rod portion and the lower rod portion are telescopically connected to provide a rod length that is adjustable by movement of the upper rod portion relative to the column, including movement relative to a top connector and the bottom portion of the rod. In one aspect, a bottom connector secures the bottom portion of the extendable rod to the bottom end of the column.

Any of the devices provided herein may also include a quick release clamp operatively connecting the upper and lower rod portions for controlling the rod length. The release clamp is released to allow movement of the upper rod portion, and at a desired position, the clamp is engaged to securely position the rod tip.

In one aspect, the extendable pole has a top end that is controllably positioned relative to the top end of the column and is further defined by a selectable spacing distance from the top end of the column that is greater than or equal to 0 cm (corresponding to the pole storage configuration) and less than or equal to 1 m.

In one embodiment, any of the devices provided herein further includes one or more retainers connected to the top of the pole for securing a medical component. Each of the multiple retainers can extend from the pole top in a non-forward-facing direction. One example of a non-forward-facing arrangement is where the first and second retainers are extendable relative to each other in directions to the left and right about the device, and at least two additional retainers are evenly rotated apart and extend in a rearward-facing direction. In this way, each retainer is evenly spaced from the adjacent retainer, but only across the rearward-facing 180°, so that the four retainers are rotationally separated by 60°. In one aspect, there are three retainers, the retainers are rotationally separated by 90°. The end of each retainer can be a hook geometry. In one aspect, the retainers are rotationally and/or removably connected to the pole top. In aspects where the retainers are rotationally connected, the retainers can be rotated relative to the pole as needed to minimize interference with the patient and/or caregiver. This rotation can provide a retainer configuration with continuous positioning over a full 360° circumference. For example, the holder can be positioned forward to minimize patient obstruction during use. Conversely, during storage, the holder can be positioned in a rearward-facing orientation to provide maximum compactness, such as for shipping or to avoid overly exposed hooks facing outward. The holder can also be positioned in a left-facing or right-facing orientation, such as to minimize interference with people walking next to the device and the patient.

In one aspect, any of the provided apparatuses is further characterized by a column angle, such as a column angle selected from the range of greater than or equal to 50° and less than or equal to 85°, or a column angle of approximately 70°.

In one aspect, the extendable shaft has at least one retainer at a top end of the extendable shaft and at least one retainer at a bottom end of the extendable shaft. In this way, any of the devices provided herein can support at least one medical component at a top portion and at least one medical component at a bottom portion.

In one aspect where the rod is not substantially parallel to the column or column surface, the bottom end of the rod can extend to a position vertically below the mobility handle and optionally aligned with at least a portion of the mobility handle. Similarly, the top end of the rod can extend to a position vertically above the top end of the column and positioned aligned with or in front of the mobility handle.

Any of the devices provided herein can employ additional wheels to provide additional versatility depending on the device state (such as, deployed configuration or stored/collapsed configuration). For example, any of the devices provided herein can further include a fourth wheel connected to the vertex region, wherein the third wheel and the fourth wheel are aligned relative to each other and separated by a separation distance that is greater than or equal to 5 cm and less than or equal to 50 cm. One function of the third wheel and the fourth wheel is to improve the maneuverability and control of the device during ambulation. One function of the third wheel and the fourth wheel is to improve device stability, including increased resistance to tipping over.

Any of the devices provided herein further comprises a fifth wheel connected to the apex region or the base, wherein the fifth wheel is in a rearwardly offset position relative to the third wheel (and fourth wheel, if present), and the fifth wheel is vertically offset relative to each of the first, second, and third wheels (and fourth wheel, if present) such that during ambulation, the first through third wheels (and fourth wheel, if present) stably contact the support surface and the fifth wheel does not contact the support surface. In this aspect, when the device is in the stored configuration and the base legs are positioned generally adjacent to the pole, the first, second, and fifth wheels stably contact the support surface and the third wheel (and fourth wheel, if present) are vertically offset from and do not contact the support surface, thereby providing controlled movement of the device when in the stored configuration and under an applied force. Wheels (e.g., one wheel or a pair of wheels, such as a fifth wheel or a fifth and sixth wheel) are attached to the bottom of the column, such as at the top, and may be referred to herein as "trolley wheels." The trolleys are designed to facilitate mobility of the folded device, such as by applying a lifting force at the top of the column to move the folded device in a manner similar to that of a two-wheeled suitcase. In contrast, when the device is unfolded, the trolleys do not contact the supporting surface. In this way, the first and second wheels and the trolleys can contact the floor in the device storage configuration. A person can begin carrying the device by lifting the top of the column very slightly (e.g., approximately 0.1°). Then, at approximately 35°-45° (e.g., 40°) from the floor, the third and fourth wheels (the raised casters) contact the floor. However, due to their oblique angle, they are free to rotate (pivot) until the column reaches approximately 50°-55° (e.g., 53°), at which point they begin to bear the weight of the device. Past this point, the trolleys begin to lift off the floor.

On the other hand, any of the devices provided herein further includes a fifth wheel connected to the first base leg and a sixth wheel connected to the second base leg, respectively, wherein during walking when the device legs are deployed, each of the first wheel, the second wheel, the third wheel, and the fourth wheel is in stable contact with the support surface and the fifth wheel and the sixth wheel are vertically offset and therefore do not contact the support surface. In this regard, in the storage configuration, the device is configured so that the fifth wheel and the sixth wheel each contact the support surface, and optionally together with the first wheel and the second wheel, contribute to the maneuverability of the device on the support surface in the storage configuration. This is particularly useful for facilitating storage of the device in confined spaces (such as under a bed or shelf), where, without the need to lift the device, the device can be reliably controlled and steered, such as by a foot or touch, without having to lean over. When the desired storage position is reached, the first wheel and/or the second wheel can be locked in place (braked) to prevent inadvertent movement of the device. In this regard, a large, stable deployed device is provided as a constrained, stable device that can be easily maneuvered without requiring excessive force or exertion by the user or caregiver. The two front pairs of wheels (e.g., the third/fourth wheels and the fifth/sixth wheels) are offset relative to each other. This facilitates stable movement in both the deployed and stored configurations, with all four wheels contacting a support surface in either configuration. In the deployed configuration, the first/second wheel pair and the third/fourth wheel pair contact the support surface (and the fifth/sixth wheel pair do not); however, in the stored configuration, the first/second wheel pair and the fifth/sixth wheel pair contact the support surface (and the third/fourth wheel pair do not). The specific attachment points of the fifth and sixth wheels are unimportant, as long as they do not prevent the fifth and sixth wheels from being offset relative to the third wheel (and the fourth wheel) when the device is deployed and do not prevent the fifth and sixth wheels from aligning with the first and second wheels when the base legs are in the stored configuration. Thus, the fifth and sixth wheels can be connected to the column, the apex region, the base leg, and any portion thereof. In one aspect, the fifth and sixth wheels are connected to an inner portion of the base leg and are capable of directionally rotating. Alternatively, as described above, the fifth and sixth wheels can be arranged so that they only stably contact the support surface in the device storage configuration and during the lifting movement of the top of the column so that the column is sufficiently tilted. In one aspect, for the device in the storage configuration, an inclination angle of the column relative to the support surface of greater than 0° and less than 60° ensures that the fifth and sixth wheels (tactile wheels) engage the support surface.

Any of the devices may also include a mounting arm connected to the column and extending in a direction within an area extending vertically from the double-sided base footprint, such as for supporting a medical component, including a component associated with a patient recovering from surgery, such as a pleur-evac drainage unit connected to a patient's chest tube. Similar to the base legs and mobility handle, the mounting arm can be rotatably connected to the column to provide a mounting arm deployed configuration and a mounting arm stored configuration.

Any of the devices herein may be further described in terms of a mobility handle. The mobility handle is an important feature of the mobility assistance device as it is the point of contact with the user, who in turn is connected to the multiple medical components supported by the device. It is therefore important that the user feels comfortable with the configuration and position of the mobility handle. With this in mind, any of the devices has a height-adjustable mobility handle. For example, the height adjustability may be achieved by a translational connection to the column, such as a mobility handle that translates longitudinally over at least one longitudinal portion between the top and bottom ends of the column to provide height adjustability of the mobility handle. Alternatively, a portion of the mobility handle may be height-adjustable by a rotational motion, similar to a crank that rotates about an axis.

In one embodiment, the translational connection between the mobility handle and the column includes a groove in the outer surface of the column and a mobility handle member that operably engages the groove to releasably position the mobility handle at a desired height from the base. The mobility handle, translationally connected to the column, optionally provides a controllable height adjustability, the controllable height being selected from a vertical height relative to the base of greater than or equal to 2 feet and less than or equal to 6 feet. In this way, the device can be customized to suit the height of the user, ranging from a child to a tall adult, thereby ensuring maximum comfort and controllability. Height adjustability can be achieved by a quick release clamp that operably connects the mobility handle to the torso.

The mobility handle of this device provides the ability to obtain other useful functions. For example, the mobility handle can also include a platform having a first platform end and a second platform end configured to be opposite to each other. A first grip handle is connected to the second platform end and a second grip handle is connected to the second platform end. The grip handle includes a grip that is configured to receive the hand of the user who will move and walk with the device. The first platform end is translationally connected to the column to provide longitudinal translation along the column, thereby providing vertical adjustability for the first grip handle and the second grip handle. In this way, the first grip handle and the second grip handle are configured to receive the walking force from the user's first hand and the user's second hand, and the platform can be used to support additional items, such as medical components, mobile computing or communication equipment, liquid containers with an optional container holder (such as a cup holder), and/or the user's personal belongings. The platform is extremely versatile and can have many geometric shapes, sizes, and configurations. Optionally, a flange may be provided around an outer edge of the platform to prevent material placed on the platform from sliding off the platform.

To enhance the collapsibility, storability, and/or transportability of the device, any of the device elements provided herein can be removably or deployably connected to other elements of the device. For example, a first grip handle and a second grip handle can be removably or rotatably connected to the platform, thereby providing a grip handle deployed configuration and a grip handle stored configuration. Alternatively, the platform itself can be rotatably connected to the column.

In one aspect, the first grip handle and the second grip handle extend from the platform along a plane generally parallel to the base plane defined by the first base leg and the second base leg. This is advantageous because it provides for inclusion of a reasonably sized platform within the device without compromising device functionality, mobility, storability, or collapsibility. Thus, the entire mobility handle translates vertically relative to the base, thereby maintaining good platform alignment with the base and the support surface.

In one embodiment, the first and second grip handles are positioned within an area that is vertically aligned with the double-sided base footprint. "An area that is vertically aligned with the double-sided base footprint" refers to the volume of space extending above the base footprint with the outer limits defined by the base legs. However, depending on the user, the present invention is not so limited because the highly stable configuration allows for tolerance in placing the grip handles outside the spatial area defined by the double-sided base footprint. Restrictions on grip handle placement and geometry include ensuring that the force applied by the user to the grip handles is insufficient to cause the device to break, tip over, or otherwise unbalance the device. This is based on the requirement that, in the event that a user stumbles or stumbles and uses a grip handle to prevent a fall, the grip handles should be able to support a significant portion of the user's weight. In one aspect, the device is configured to support approximately 200 pounds of weight and has a safety factor of at least 1.5, so that up to 300 pounds of force can be applied to the device without the device breaking or tipping over. In one aspect, the device is configured to accommodate significantly heavier patient weights and corresponding forces.

The mobility handle optionally includes a first grip handle and a second grip handle, each of which is linear and extends from the post at a grip angle that is acute, such as a grip angle selected from the range of greater than or equal to 30° and less than 90°.

In one aspect, the first grip handle is generally aligned with the first base leg and the second grip handle is generally aligned with the second base leg.

To maximize platform stability and usability and minimize potential pinch points, the first platform end is optionally shaped to conform to the shape of a portion of the outer surface of the column that is engaged by the first platform end. Conforming in this regard means being spaced no more than 2 cm, 1 cm, or 0.5 cm from the outer surface of the column.

Preferably, the post includes an inwardly facing surface that faces the double-sided base footprint and the first platform end engages the inwardly facing surface. Accordingly, the post may also include a forwardly facing surface that faces the front of the device. Optionally, the longitudinally oriented stem surface is separated from the forwardly facing surface of the post by a separation distance that extends over substantially the entire stem base portion or an intermediate portion thereof.

Any of the devices provided herein have a first base leg and a second base leg rotatably connected to a bottom end of a column to provide a stored configuration in which the base legs are generally parallel to the column and a deployed configuration in which the base legs and column form an acute column angle. In one aspect, the base legs have a length that is less than or equal to the column length. In one aspect, the base legs have a length that is between approximately 40% and 80% of the column length, greater than 50% of the column length, or between approximately 50% and 90% of the column length.

The rotatable connection is achieved by any means known in the art. In one aspect, a dowel pin can be used to engage with multiple pathways to provide a deployed base configuration and a stored base configuration. However, preferably, deployment can be semi-automatic, such as where the first and second base legs are rotatably connected to the column bottom end via a gas spring that generates a deployment force to deploy the base legs. In this aspect, a storage force is required to store the base legs, and the storage force is greater than the deployment force. This can help prevent inadvertent collapse.

To further increase security against inadvertent collapse, any of the devices may also include an anti-collapse mechanism to prevent the base from inadvertently collapsing/storing into the stored configuration. Embodiments of the anti-collapse mechanism include a safety lever that must be released before the base can be stored from the deployed configuration, and embodiments of the anti-collapse mechanism also include pins, locks, and the like, including dual mechanisms that require simultaneous engagement of two distinct elements spaced sufficiently far apart to require two physically separate stored forces, thereby providing a two-force anti-collapse mechanism.

An important functional benefit of the device provided herein is the ability to secure an infusion pump to an extendable pole at an angle that is off-horizontal or off-vertical. This allows the pump display to face outward and places the pump at an angle that makes the pump controls more accessible. All other IV poles on the market that are based on a vertical pole configuration require vertical mounting of the infusion pump, with attendant disadvantages regarding access to the pump controls.

The ability to easily and efficiently collapse the device into a confined volume is particularly advantageous for storage. In addition, any of the devices herein can be transported using standard shipping containers. Any of the devices provided herein can be described as having a storage configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the storage configuration has a storage volume dimension less than or equal to 52.25" (length) x 12" (height) x 10.5" (width) without mechanical removal/separation of any portion of the device. In one aspect, the storage volume is approximately 50" x 10.5" x 10" to provide a storage volume of approximately 5250 cubic inches. In contrast, the corresponding deployed volume dimensions correspond to approximately 30" length x 48" height (undeployed pole) or 80" height (with deployed pole) x 27" to provide a deployed volume of 38,880 cubic inches or 64,800 cubic inches. There is some variation tolerance in these dimensions, such as from the specific starting and ending points at which each dimension is measured. A particular advantage of the devices provided herein is the ability to compactly ship a fully assembled and ready-to-use device such that no further assembly is required upon receipt.

In one aspect, the base angle formed between the legs is between about 40° and 60°, such as about 50° to ensure adequate toe clearance during stride movement of the patient.

Any of the devices described herein may be further described in terms of a separation distance between an outer surface of the rod and an outer surface of the post, such as a separation distance greater than or equal to 1 cm and less than or equal to 5 cm.

In another aspect, any of the mobility assistance devices provided herein includes: a column having a bottom end and a top end; a base including first and second base legs to form an open footprint, such as at least a double-sided base footprint, wherein one end of each of the first and second base legs is connected to the column bottom end to form an apex region, and the column and base footprint form a column angle having an acute angle such that the column extends within an area extending vertically from the double-sided base footprint. A first wheel is connected to the first base leg; a second wheel is connected to the second base leg; and a third wheel is connected to the apex region, wherein each of the wheels is configured to stably contact a support surface on which the device rests. A height-adjustable mobility handle is connected to the column, wherein the height-adjustable mobility handle translates along at least a longitudinal portion of the column between the top end and the bottom end, wherein the mobility handle is configured to receive an applied force to stably move the device over the support surface under the applied force. In one aspect, the column longitudinal portion refers to approximately the upper portion of the column, such as at least the upper 80%, upper 60%, or upper 40% of the column. In one aspect, the upper portion is approximately 60% of the upper portion of the column to ensure that the positioning of the mobility handle does not interfere with the function of the mounting arm supporting medical components (such as catheter bags, chest drains, etc.).

As described above, the mobility aid device may further include a rod connected to the top portion of the column and the bottom portion of the column, wherein a central portion of the rod is separated from the column by a spacing distance. The central portion may be used to support a medical component, such as an infusion pump.

The mobility handle may also include a platform having a flange around an outer circumferential portion to support material within an inner portion of the platform and prevent the material from sliding off the platform.

In an embodiment in which the device is deployable, the system comprises: a column for holding one or more medical components (including via another element, such as a rod, mounting arm, or hook attached thereto); and a base comprising a first base leg and a second base leg, wherein one end of each of the base legs is pivotally connected to a bottom end of the column, wherein in a deployed configuration of the base, the column forms an acute angle relative to the base, and in a stored configuration of the base, each of the base legs and an associated portion of the mobility handle or all of the mobility handle are pivoted to a position generally parallel to the column. The device is designed such that the column angle and position relative to the base footprint ensure that the column is located above the base footprint, and preferably above a central region of the base footprint.

By "deployable" is meant that the device or a corresponding element of the device can be positioned to provide a stable deployed (e.g., "folded out") configuration and can also be positioned to provide a compact stored (e.g., "folded in," "collapsed") configuration. In one embodiment, in the base storage configuration, each of the base legs, and optionally the gripping handle and mounting arm are positioned parallel to the post. In this regard, parallel includes pairs of surfaces that are parallel within about 20° or within about 10°. In one embodiment, the base legs are parallel to the post but do not touch the post. In one embodiment, the base legs are parallel to the post and contact a post surface in at least one axial position. In one embodiment, substantially the entire length of the base leg contacts a post surface. In one embodiment, the collapsed or stored device has at least three or four wheels that provide for movement of the device over a support surface with the stored device parallel to the support surface. In this aspect of the storage configuration, the front wheels connected to the apex region do not contact the support surface.

Any of the wheels provided herein can be on casters to provide swivel. Any of the wheels can have a brake to prevent movement of the device. In one aspect, only the wheel connected to one end of the first base leg and one end of the second base leg has a brake, including a brake that can be engaged or disengaged with one foot.

The column of the present invention can have any of a variety of shapes, so long as the column and base legs are capable of relatively compact storage when the base legs are positioned generally parallel to the column. Thus, the column has an axial or longitudinal direction selected from the group consisting of angled, curved, and linear. In one aspect, the column is angled or curved. For example, an angled or curved column is useful for positioning an IMS near an object such as a bed, gurney, table, and dresser. In one aspect, the column is linear. A linear column is the simplest geometry and can produce the most compact configuration, suitable for wall-mounted storage, placement within a cart capable of holding multiple IMS devices of the present invention, or on a shelf or under a bed.

Any of the systems described herein can have any suitable size or shape, so long as the device is stable and resistant to tipping over even when relatively heavy components are attached to the device. For example, the column can have at least a linear portion, wherein the linear portion is angled relative to the vertical. The angle relative to the vertical can be any suitable angle, including an angle selected from a range between approximately 5° and 25°, between 10° and 15°, or an angle of approximately 12°, thereby ensuring that the column, and more particularly the components supported by the column, are positioned above a central portion of the base footprint. The vertical distance between the top and bottom ends of the column can have a range selected to match the height of the user (e.g., a child versus an adult). For example, the vertical height (e.g., the distance from the top to the floor) can be selected from a range between approximately 3′ and 6′, 4′ to 5′, or approximately 4.5′. The telescoping rod provides additional vertical height, such as a height selected from a range between approximately 1′ and 2′, or approximately 18″. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment, the total vertical height of the column plus the telescoping rod is approximately 7′. In one aspect, the ability to accommodate individuals of different heights or mobility is achieved by adjusting the height of the mobility handle to a desired vertical distance from a support surface (e.g., a floor). For example, an individual requiring vertical support can deploy the mobility handle to a lower vertical height so that the individual's arm strength can be applied to the mobility handle to assist in movement. An individual not requiring such vertical support can position the mobility handle at a relatively higher vertical position.

The base footprint of a mobility aid device with three wheels contacting a support surface is generally triangular, with each vertex corresponding to a point of contact between a wheel and the support surface. For embodiments with two front wheels, the front vertices effectively correspond to straight lines of length corresponding to the distance separating the wheels. The specific column and base leg geometries, interdependently, make the deployed device extremely stable. In one embodiment, the base legs have a length selected from a range of approximately 2′ to 3.5′, 30″ to 36″, or approximately 3′. The base footprint corresponds to the area between the base legs and is approximately 610 square inches for a 36″ length base leg and a 70° vertex angle. In one aspect, where two front wheels are connected to the vertex area, the footprint is a truncated triangular or trapezoidal area having a base footprint area selected from a range of greater than 500 square inches and less than approximately 600 square inches, or approximately 555 square inches.

In another aspect, any of the described or claimed systems has a base apex angle selected from the range of 40° to 100°, 35° to 75°, or approximately 50°, wherein the base apex angle is defined by the angle formed by the orientation of the first base leg and the orientation of the second base leg, and in particular, by the angle formed by the orientation of the base leg ends adjacent the base of the column. An important aspect of the present invention is that even for devices with a large base footprint and capable of holding a substantial number of components, when not in use, the device can be folded into a compact configuration having dimensions only slightly larger than the dimensions of the column when in the upright storage configuration. For example, when folded for storage, the device's footprint can be as small as the horizontal cross-section of the column, or, when in the storage position of the base legs, the device's footprint can be approximately the cross-section of the column plus the cross-section of each of the base legs. In contrast, the footprint of an unfolded IMS corresponds to the area defined by the unfolded base legs, with the corresponding volume also including the column height. Thus, in one aspect, the stored footprint is less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 5% of the unfolded footprint. On the one hand, the deployed volume and storage volume can be used to characterize the compactness of the system. On the one hand, the storage volume of the stored system is less than about 5500 cubic inches, such as, about 5250 cubic inches or less. Similarly, any of the devices provided herein relates to a deployed volume and a storage volume, wherein the storage volume is less than or equal to about 30%, 20% or about 15% of the deployed device, including devices with a configuration in which the rods are deployed or a configuration in which the rods are stored. On the one hand, the storage volume is about 5250 cubic inches or less, and the deployed volume is greater than or equal to about 26,640 cubic inches (for rod storage) or 44,440 cubic inches (for rod deployment), which is equivalent to a storage volume that is 20% or 12% of the deployed volume. The special configuration of the rod holder at the top of the rod minimizes the storage volume by ensuring that the holder is confined to an area facing the base footprint behind the column rather than in front of the column. A convenient aspect is that the storage configuration and the deployed configuration are easily interchangeable without having to remove any part or parts. Thus, the device can be deployed or stored by a single person in a quick, reliable and convenient manner.

In another aspect, any of the devices provided herein includes an oxygen cylinder holder for fixedly holding an oxygen cylinder, such as an upper cylinder holder connected to the column for coupling with an upper portion of an oxygen cylinder and a lower cylinder holder connected to the first base leg or the second base leg for coupling with a base portion of an oxygen cylinder.

The upper oxygen cylinder holder optionally includes an arm to secure an oxygen cylinder in an axial position of the oxygen cylinder, such as the arm being a clasp. In one embodiment, the arm is a ring having an internal passage configured to receive an oxygen cylinder at an axially defined circumferential contact area, such as the ring being connected to a torso.

In one embodiment, the ring is rotationally positionable relative to the first base leg and the second base leg to receive an oxygen cylinder on either the first base leg or the second base leg. In this way, added oxygen cylinder stability is obtained on either side of the device.

Any of the devices provided herein can have a lower tank holder comprising a receiving surface and a circumferential flange for receiving a bottom surface of an oxygen tank.

In one embodiment, the device can include a pair of lower bottle holders, such as a second lower bottle holder, wherein the first lower bottle holder is connected to the first base leg and the second lower bottle holder is connected to the second base leg. This is convenient when paired with a rotatable upper bottle holder, so that oxygen bottles can be held on either side of the device as needed. Alternatively, the lower bottle holder can be reversibly connected to the first base leg or the second base leg, so that an oxygen bottle can be supported by the first base leg or the second base leg by moving the lower bottle holder between the base legs.

In one aspect, any of the devices provided herein further comprises an oxygen cylinder, wherein the oxygen cylinder is in an upright position and supported by the first base leg or the second base leg. Any size oxygen cylinder that is considered portable for the patient can be used. For example, the oxygen cylinder can be a D cylinder (4.38" diameter and 16.5" height) or an E cylinder (4.38" diameter and 25.5" height).

The oxygen cylinder holder is configured to secure an oxygen cylinder to a longitudinally defined portion of the arm of the first base leg or the arm of the second base leg, the longitudinally defined portion extending from the post to approximately half the length of the base leg arm. In one aspect, the position is fixed and determined based on the geometry and position of the top cylinder holder relative to the underlying base leg. Alternatively, the position is adjustable, such as by positioning the bottom cylinder holder on the base leg at different distances from the post.

Any of the devices provided herein can include an upper oxygen cylinder holder connected to the column via a mounting arm, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder is rotatably connected to the mounting arm. In this way, the upper oxygen cylinder holder is indirectly connected to the column via an intervening element (such as a mounting arm).

In another embodiment, any of the devices provided herein further includes a socket strip mount that is connected to a pole, column, base leg, or other portion for fixedly receiving a socket strip. In one aspect, the mount is connected to the pole, such as by a rotational and translational connection. The socket strip can have multiple electrical outlets to power multiple electrical devices. The socket strip can have an electrical cord for connecting to a power source such as an electrical outlet (e.g., a wall, floor, etc.) or a battery supported by the mobility assistance device. The socket strip mount can include: a top bracket that is configured to connect to one end of the socket strip; and a bottom bracket that is configured to connect to a second end of the socket strip, wherein the second end of the socket strip is opposite the first end of the socket strip. In this way, the socket strip can be "snapped" into the space between the brackets, and the brackets can then be rotationally adjusted and/or translationally (e.g., height) to obtain the desired positioning of the socket strip. Thus, the top bracket, the bottom bracket, or both the top bracket and the bottom bracket are vertically and rotationally adjustable to independently position a socket strip in any vertical and rotational position relative to the pole.

The top bracket and the bottom bracket can be nestable relative to each other to provide a bracket storage configuration when no socket strip is connected to the top bracket or the bottom bracket. Nestable means that one surface of the bracket is shaped to mate with a surface of the other bracket to maximize the available space on the pole when the socket strip is not needed.

Any of the apparatus provided herein optionally includes a socket strip connected to the socket strip mount. Optionally, the socket strip is reversibly connected to the socket strip mount so that the socket strip can be removed as desired.

Any of the devices provided herein optionally further comprises a first cord management bracket and a second cord management bracket, each of the cord management brackets being coupled to the pole and separated from each other by a spaced distance, wherein the brackets are configured to receive the cord in a spooled configuration and securely secure the spooled cord to a longitudinal portion of a pole surface. In one aspect, the cord management bracket comprises an articulating bracket that moves from a stored position in which the bracket is substantially aligned parallel to the pole surface to an unfolded position configured to receive and store a single cord.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1A : View of a mobility assistance device with an unfolded base. The grip handle for receiving force from the patient is in the stored position. The pole is not extended. FIG1B : Side schematic diagram of the device illustrating the pole angle θ formed by the angle between the pole and the base. Φ shows the corresponding angle relative to the vertical. FIG1C : Side schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment in which the axial pole has separate angled portions, one pole portion being vertical and the other portion being inclined relative to the vertical. FIG1D : Schematic illustration of a double-sided base footprint defined by two base legs converging at an apex region, with a pair of wheels connected to the bottom of the pole for this orientation, and an imaginary line. FIG1E : Schematic illustration of the pole and pole axes, along with the separation distance between the outer surfaces of the pole and the pole. FIG1F : Schematic illustration of the pole and pole in a substantially non-parallel configuration, wherein the pole is vertical relative to the base footprint and is positioned within a region extending vertically from the base footprint.

Figure 2: View of the deployed device with the base legs, mounting arms and mobility handle deployed.

Figure 3: View of the device deployed with the pole fully extended.

Figure 4: View of the device with the medical components attached to the mounting arm, holder and rod. The rod is not extended.

Figure 5: View of the device shown in Figure 4 with the rod fully extended.

Figure 6: Close-up view of the upper portion of the device, which includes the mobility handle platform, the holder at the top of the rod, and the quick release clamp for adjusting the length of the rod.

Figure 7: View of the device in a storage configuration.

8: Close-up view of the middle portion of the device showing the translational connection between the mobility handle and the post, along with the quick release cam for height positioning of the mobility handle and the engagement mechanism for rotating the grip handle into either the stored or deployed configuration.

Figure 9: Close-up view showing the apex area, the rotational connection between the base legs and the column, and the fifth and sixth wheels connected to the base legs.

Figures 10-17: Various views of a mobility assistance device having an oxygen cylinder holder for securing an oxygen cylinder.

Figure 18: Image of a mobility assist device with a cord management stand that is deployable and storable via an articulating mechanism.

Figure 19: Close-up view of the power cord management bracket.

Figure 20: Image of a power strip connected to a mobility aid.

Figure 21: A photograph showing the socket strip bracket being rotatably connected to the mobility assistance device so that the power socket strip can be oriented in any desired direction.

Figure 22: Close-up view of the socket strip bracket in the storage configuration. The socket strip bracket is translationally connected to the mobility assistance device so that they can be positioned vertically to any desired height and nested together when not in use.

Figure 23: Rear view of the mobility assistance device with multiple components deployed.

Figure 24: Side view of the mobility assistance device of Figure 23.

Figure 25: A rear view of the mobility aid of Figure 23 with some components in a stored configuration.

Figure 26: Mobility aid in full storage configuration and upright ready for storage in the upright configuration.

Figure 27: Mobility aid in full storage configuration and resting against the floor ready for storage in a horizontal configuration, including under a bed.

FIG. 28 : A deployed mobility assistance device illustrating another shaped handle configuration, wherein the handle is in an outwardly angled geometry.

Figure 29: Close-up view of the formed handle configuration with the oxygen tank holder and mounting arms in the deployed configuration.

Figure 30: Close-up view of the formed handle configuration with the oxygen tank holder and mounting arm in the storage configuration.

Figure 31: Close-up view of the oxygen tank holder and mounting arm: Figure 31A deployed configuration and ready to receive equipment; Figure 31B medical device holding one oxygen tank and chest drain; Figure 31C in the stored configuration.

Figure 32: Figures 32A and 32B illustrate the holder being rotated between rearward and forward directions, respectively, in a pole stored configuration. Figures 32C and 32D illustrate the holder being rotated between rearward and forward directions, respectively, in a pole deployed configuration.

Figure 33 illustrates an embodiment where the brake is operably connected to the front wheel. Also illustrated is a rod connected to the bottom of the column area.

34 is a close-up view of the mobility handle platform that connects the mobility handle to the post via a deployment button and a pair of fasteners to secure tubes or lines (including IV tubing) to the device.

Figure 35 illustrates a "T" shaped power cord management hook.

Figures 36A-36C illustrate an accessory module connected to a column from which a mounting arm, chest drain mounting arm, and oxygen cylinder upper holder (not shown) can extend. Figure 36A is a close-up view of the accessory module and the engagement mechanism for deploying/storing the mounting arm. Figure 36B shows the mounting arm in the deployed configuration. Figure 36C shows the mounting arm in the stored configuration.

FIG. 37 illustrates a tether port through the platform or handle bracket that can be used to attach a tether to the device.

38 is a bottom view of the tether port of FIG. 37 .

Figure 39 illustrates an end portion of a base leg useful for securing a connector (such as a wheelchair connector) through a connection port at the end of the base leg. Figure 39A. The connection port is available and ready to receive an end of a connector. Figure 39B. The hitch providing the connection port is retracted when the connection port is not needed.

40 is a bottom view of FIG. 39B illustrating a mechanism that may be used with the traction device to provide traction device deployment ( FIG. 39A ) and traction device retraction or storage ( FIG. 39B ).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements and like numbers appearing in more than one drawing refer to like elements. In addition, hereinafter, the following definitions apply:

The present invention is broadly described as a mobile intravenous (IV) pole or mobility aid capable of supporting one or more components to which a user is connected. A base footprint combined with an angled post, which forms an acute angle with the base footprint, allows the patient to ambulate without interference from any of the base legs, post, or components connected to the system. The post angles shown in the exemplary embodiment create stability for suspending large amounts of heavy equipment and/or materials from the system while maintaining the ability to connect or interact with the patient.

A "post" refers to a central axis or rod to which any number of components (e.g., medical components) can be held or attached. The post has at least a portion that is angled to form an acute angle with the base footprint, thereby providing enhanced stability to the device, even when multiple relatively heavy components are attached to the device and the device is being pushed around by a user. In one aspect, the post is linear (e.g., non-curved or non-curved) and extends over an area having an outer boundary defined by a vertical extension of the base footprint, such that the post is positioned above the base footprint. The present invention encompasses other post shapes (such as curved posts and/or curved posts) as long as at least a portion of the post is angled relative to the horizontal so that the components held by the device are positioned substantially above the base footprint, thereby ensuring maximum stability and resistance to tipping. In one aspect, the column top is positioned above a central portion of the base footprint, such as above a middle portion relative to a centerline of the base footprint, including a middle portion centered within 30%, 20%, 10% or at the center of the base footprint.

"Base" refers to the portion of the system that rests on a supporting surface (e.g., a floor). In an exemplary embodiment, the base includes a pair of base legs, each of which is pivotally connected to the bottom end of a column. "Pivotally connected" means that the base is deployable relative to the column. Thus, when the base legs are folded outward, the legs are positioned at an angle relative to the column and the system is ready to support one or more medical components. When the base legs are folded inward, they are positioned generally parallel to the column and the device is relatively compact and ready for storage. As used herein, "parallel" means that the longitudinal direction of the base legs is within at least 5° of being truly parallel relative to the longitudinal direction of the column. "Generally parallel" means that the longitudinal direction of an axis or surface is within at least 30°, at least 15°, or at least 5° of deviating from parallel.

Many features of the device are deployable. "Deployable" means that the components are "folded inward" or "stored" (positioned) to make the components or device more compact for storage, or "folded outward" or "deployed" (positioned) to make the components or device ready for use.

In embodiments where the post is a straight shaft, the base legs can have a correspondingly straight geometry, wherein the base legs form a base leg vertex angle corresponding to the vertex at the post to which each leg is pivotally connected. In embodiments where the post is angled or curved, each of the base legs is preferably correspondingly angled or curved to ensure maximum compact storage of the device when the base legs are pivoted to a position parallel to the post. Although for maximum compactness it is preferred that the base legs have similar longitudinal geometry to the post, the present invention tolerates mismatches in geometry without undue loss of the ability to make the device compact when not in use.

The contact points between the base and the surface on which the base rests define the edges of the base footprint. "Base footprint" refers to the area defined by the contact points between the base and the support surface and an imaginary line extending from the end of the base leg not attached to the column. When three wheels are deployed, this area is triangular. When four wheels are deployed, this base area footprint is referred to herein as trapezoidal. The base footprint can also refer to the shape corresponding to the base legs rather than the wheel contact points, so the base footprint shape can be triangular or trapezoidal (e.g., each of the base legs is linear, with the two front wheels separated by a spacing distance to provide an imaginary straight line between the third and fourth wheels), or can have a more complex shape, with each side having a shape corresponding to a non-linear base leg, and a third imaginary straight line joining the end of the base leg not attached to the column. The base footprint provided herein is described as "open" in that one end of the base footprint is open (e.g., without base legs or other elements) to accommodate a user and the area is large enough to accommodate the user without interfering with the user's stride during ambulation of the user's device.

One aspect of the present invention is a mobility assist device capable of ambulating over a support surface. "Ambulating" refers to the ability of the device to move over a surface, and more particularly refers to the ability of the device to function as a walker for a patient connected to one or more medical components. In addition to the device functioning as a walker, the device is also configured to ensure that medical support personnel can easily manipulate the device while deployed or stored and optionally connected to one or more medical components. "Medical component" refers to materials, devices, or structures useful in providing medical treatment to a patient, including but not limited to, fluid (such as intravenous (IV) fluid) bags, infusion pumps, chest drains, light sources, power supplies, oxygen monitors, oxygen tanks, etc.

"Retaining" or "attaching" a medical component to a device encompasses passive hanging (e.g., a bag hung by a holder), orienting the holder to more securely receive the component, shaping the hanger to provide both male and female features for secure retention, and more complex connections, such as male-female connections with adapters that connect to multiple devices (e.g., threaded screws, one-handed quick connects, snap beads, etc.). Optional accessories such as light sources, calculators, computers, display screens, power supplies can be more permanently attached to and/or within the pole surface, or connected to other elements of the device (e.g., a pole or mounting arm), and/or supported by a platform.

The core equipment (eg, posts and base legs) itself can be made from any of a number of materials including, but not limited to, traditional chrome, any metal or metal composite, fiberglass, plastic, carbon fiber, and/or composite materials.

The device preferably has rounded edges and corners to minimize the possibility of injury caused by inadvertent contact with the device. In addition, the device can be designed to be aesthetically pleasing, with attractive sweeping legs with bold colors, sharp, clean lines, to reassure patients who are unsure about their mobility. Thus, the apex area can be formed from a large, smooth surface that provides an accessible surface that can be easily cleaned and maintained and minimizes and distributes impact forces resulting from inadvertent contact of the apex area with walls, doors, other equipment, or other people.

Example 1: Mobility Assistance Device with Extendable Pole

The mobility assistance device ("device"), in its most basic configuration, comprises a column 10 connected to a base 20 and having a rod 60 positioned along a surface of the column 10. (FIG. 1). The rod may be extendable. FIG1 to FIG5 show the device in a configuration in which the base is deployed. The base 20 has a first base leg 21 and a second base leg 22 connected to a bottom end 12 of the column. The column 10 forms a column angle 50, a non-zero angle (Φ) relative to the vertical, and an acute angle (θ) relative to the base 20, as schematically shown in FIG1B.

A first wheel 80 is attached to the first base leg 21 and a second wheel 81 is attached to the second base leg 22, and a third wheel 90 and a fourth wheel 91 are attached to the column base 12 at the apex region 40 to form a double-sided base footprint 30 (Figures 1A, 1D, and 2). The two sides of the base footprint 30 correspond to the first base leg 21 and the second base leg 22. Figure 1D. The device can have one wheel attached to the column base 12. The exemplary embodiment illustrates two wheels 90 and 91 attached to the column base 12 at the apex region 40 and separated by a spacing distance (92), such as between 5 cm and 50 cm. Therefore, for embodiments when there are four wheels for moving the deployed device on a support surface, a double-sided base footprint refers to a footprint that can have three sides to provide an open trapezoidal base footprint, but two of the sides are considered to be major sides that are significantly longer than any third side at the apex region. This geometry is also known as a "truncated triangle." The addition of a fourth wheel at the vertex region provides additional control and maneuverability of the device. Any of the wheels can be independently braked to ensure that the device does not move. In one embodiment, one or both of the first and second wheels have a brake mechanism. In one embodiment, one or both of the third and fourth wheels have a brake mechanism.

Referring to FIG1D , the column can extend above the base footprint centerline 200 and terminate within an area corresponding to a central portion 201 of the centerline, centered within or around the base footprint. This is also referred to herein as the column extending within an area extending vertically from the base footprint 30. This can be quantifiably described as being within a defined central portion of the centerline, such as within the middle third. Of course, the robust geometric design of the device provides tolerance for positioning the end of the column along the centerline 200. For example, the end of the column can extend to the rear third of the centerline without interfering with the patient's ambulation or vision. Thus, the column length and base angle are selected such that, in the deployed base configuration, the position of the column tip (Pos.) along a _centerline having a length of _Lcenterline can be defined as 0.33Lcenterline < Pos. < _Lcenterline , or _{0.33Lcenterline} < Pos. < _{0.7Lcenterline} . Optionally, at least a portion of the mobility handle is positioned above the centerline of the base footprint, such as where the mobility handle's symmetrical centerline corresponds to but is vertically above the centerline of the base footprint. Preferably, the height of the column is below the patient's eye level, thereby providing good sight lines during use of the device by an ambulatory patient.

The device includes non-linear base leg shapes, including but not limited to curved, U-shaped, and multiply-edged. For maximum compact storage (e.g., as seen in FIG. 7 ), the shape of the post is preferably complementary to the shape of the base legs, ensuring parallel positioning of the first and second base legs 21, 22 with the post 10 when the first and second base legs 21, 22 are rotated closed.

The column 10, like the first base leg 21 and the second base leg 22, can also be non-linear. The present invention encompasses a column 10 that is curved or includes more than one column segment, wherein each segment has a unique angle relative to the horizontal. For example, the column can have a vertical (e.g., at a 90° angle relative to the horizontal) bottom segment and an upper segment that is angled relative to the horizontal, as illustrated in FIG1C .

The base footprint 30 and column angle 50 ensure that the center of gravity is confined to an area within the base footprint even when one or more relatively heavy components are attached to the system. Such a configuration ensures that the device remains stable and resistant to tipping even when the deployed device is being moved around and/or supporting heavy loads. Greater stability is provided by positioning the mobility handle 70 above an area of the base footprint 30. In the exemplary embodiment, the column angle 50 is 70°. The column can have any axial shape/orientation as long as a significant portion of any suspended component is above the base footprint, thereby ensuring maximum stability and resistance to tipping.

The device is configured to receive a number of medical components, as exemplified in Figures 4 and 5, which illustrate a combination of a medical component and a device for supporting the deployment of the medical component. One device for receiving the medical component is a pole 60, comprising an extendable pole (compare Figures 2 and 3). The pole 60 is connected to a top connector 110 at the top end 11 of the pole and to a bottom connector 120 located near the bottom end 12 of the pole, and can be telescopically extended between a fully extended configuration (Figure 3) and a storage pole position (Figure 2) during use. "Telescopically," as known in the art (see, for example, U.S. Patents Nos. 5,458,305; 4,905,944), refers to an object being adjustable in height by being inserted into another object. The pole itself can support a number of devices (see, for example, Figure 4), such as a hook/holder connected to the top of the pole and/or an IV fluid bag and infusion pump connected directly to the center portion of the pole. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the upper portion 62 of the pole is adjusted by engaging the lower portion 63 of the pole, and the height of the entire pole 60 is adjusted by releasing and engaging the quick release clamp 130 (FIGS. 2 and 6). The apparatus may employ any means of adjusting the height of the pole, such as by an adjustable pin or connectable upper poles of varying lengths.

The rod 60 can be connected to one or more than one retainer 140 (see, for example, FIG. 1A and FIG. 6 ). Retainers are particularly useful for supporting medical fluid bags (such as IV fluid bags). In one embodiment, four retainers 140 are configured so that the first and second retainers are extendable relative to each other in the left and right directions relative to the device, and the other two retainers are evenly rotatably spaced in the inward direction (see FIG. 1A and FIG. 6 ). The present invention includes a device for selectively adjusting the position of the retainer. The device for selectively adjusting the retainer includes a relatively simple configuration, such as recessed holes spaced around the surface of the rod top 61 for receiving retainers or hooks with complementary convex configurations. The receiving device can be a threaded screw, a snap bead, or other systems known in the art. In one aspect, the retainers are configured so that they all face the user and no retainer is positioned beyond the front of the rod. This ensures that the collapsed volume is minimized and facilitates compact storage for freight and avoids excessive space within the container in which the collapsed device is stored.

The longitudinal axis 69 of the rod 60 is separated from the outer surface of the column 10 by a spacing distance 59, such as a spacing distance greater than 0 cm and less than 10 cm. In an exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the rod 60 is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 19 of the column 10 (Figure 1E). The rod longitudinal axis 69 can also be non-parallel relative to the column longitudinal axis 19, as long as the device remains stable when medical components are added (Figure 1F). This spacing distance is important and is selected to accommodate and reliably support medical components, such as infusion pumps (see, for example, Figures 4-5). One advantage of the device provided herein is that the angled geometry and spacing distance 59 allow the infusion pump to be positioned off-vertically along any portion of the rod, which is suitable for a medical caregiver to conveniently position the control surface of the infusion pump for detection, access, and control even during movement of the device.

Example 2: Height-Adjustable Mobility Handle

One useful embodiment of the present invention is a system having a mobility handle 70 comprising a platform 72 and first and second grip handles 75, 76 (FIGS. 2-6). In this aspect, the mobility handle is height-adjustable, but along a handle plane that is generally parallel or parallel to the base footprint. In this aspect, the height-adjustable mobility handle 70 can be achieved through a variety of mechanisms. In the exemplary embodiment, the mobility handle first platform end 73 engages with a recess 160 in the inward-facing surface 14 of the column 10 to achieve height adjustability along the column (FIGS. 6 and 8). The first and second grip handles 75, 76 engage the second platform end 74, where they can be pivoted or rotated downwardly into a storage position via an engagement mechanism 7 and height-adjustable via a quick-release cam 77 mechanism (FIGS. 1 and 8). Alternatively, the grip handles can be telescopically moved into the storage position or via other mechanisms, or the grip handles can be removed. The engagement mechanism 77 for handle rotation or height adjustment can be implemented as a button on one side of the handle bracket for engaging handle rotation. In the exemplary embodiment, the first grip handle 75 and the second grip handle 76 extend from the platform 72 along a plane generally parallel to the base plane, which is defined by the first base leg 21 and the second base leg 22. The grip handles can be positioned along other planes. For example, they can extend straight back above the base footprint or have other shapes, such as a swept-out configuration (Figure 29). The platform 72 can have a flange around its perimeter or at the platform second end 74 for holding a tray or other components, and this platform is a particularly user-friendly feature for the user or caregiver to securely store personal items (e.g., mobile phones, wallets, identification, charts, food, cups, and cup holders) in a safe and convenient manner.

Example 3: Mounting Arm

This embodiment illustrates a rotatable mounting arm 150 connected to the inward-facing surface 14 of the column for holding additional medical equipment and other relatively heavy objects (e.g., a small platform, a power supply, a chest drain, etc.). Figures 2-5 show the mounting arm 150 in the deployed position. The mobility assistance device can be used with the mounting arm in the stored configuration (Figure 1A).

Example 4: Storage Configuration

Fig. 7 illustrates the device in its complete storage configuration. Specifically, each of the independently deployable components (first base leg 21 and second base leg 22, first grip handle 75 and second grip handle 76, mounting arm 150, rod 60) is stored to provide maximum compactness. Optional fifth wheel 100 and sixth wheel 101 (Fig. 9) help to roll the device over a surface to move it to a storage position or move it out of a storage position, or move it to an area where the device is to be deployed. In this respect, the device can be easily moved in the storage configuration, including by applying force from the feet, by making the first, second, fifth and sixth wheels contact the floor, wherein the wheels (fourth and fifth wheels) connected to the apex area do not contact the support surface. Alternatively, as described above, the fifth and sixth wheels can be trolleys that rollably engage with the support surface when the rod in the device storage configuration is tilted relative to the support surface. In this way, a caregiver can reliably move the stored device by simply lifting a top portion of the column. During deployment of the device, the fifth and sixth wheels, in contrast, do not touch the support surface (as can be seen, for example, in Figures 1-2). Alternatively, the fifth and sixth wheels are replaced by glides to facilitate sliding over the support surface. One person can easily store the first base leg 21 and the second base leg 22 by engaging a safety lever 180. The safety lever includes a gas spring and a base leg deployment mechanism 170 for gentle and reliable storage and deployment. The gas spring is operably connected to a base leg deployment mechanism that rotatably connects the base leg to the column, including in an "over-center" configuration.

The device can be compactly stored while retaining the ability to be quickly and easily deployed by a single person. For example, depressing the safety lever 180 and applying a deployment force sufficient to overcome the over-center force from the gas spring allows the first and second base legs 21 and 22 to be unlocked from their stored positions (parallel to the column 10). The first and second grip handles 75 and 76 are rotatably unlocked for storage via engagement mechanism 78 ( FIG. 8 ) or engagement mechanism 3410 ( FIG. 34 ) and height-adjustable via quick-release cams 77 . The handles can be manually raised to the deployed configuration (parallel to the column 20) and locked in place using manual force. A ball-spring plunger-type device can hold the handles in the stored position. Pulling the handle of the device, without releasing the lock, deploys the handles. The mounting arm 150 is manually rotated upward to the stored configuration (parallel to the column 10) and downward to the deployed configuration (parallel to the column 20), or can be stored using other mechanisms known in the art (including, but not limited to, quick-release cams, pins, screws, locks, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the storage volume of the device is less than or equal to 50" x 10.5" x 10". Dimensions that result in larger storage volumes are contemplated by the present invention.

Example 5: Mobility Assistance Device with Oxygen Retention Capability

In one embodiment, any of the mobility assistance devices provided herein includes a device for securing an oxygen cylinder. This is an important embodiment because many patients, including those connected to IV infusion components or other medical components, also require oxygen. Without a safe, reliable, and easy-to-use mechanism, such patients would find it difficult to move around. Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is an oxygen cylinder holder that securely secures an oxygen cylinder to a mobility assistance device. In one embodiment, the holder is positioned so as not to interfere with the functionality of the mobility assistance device, including stable movement and the ability to be compactly stored. The holder can therefore be connected to one of the base legs or the column. The holder can be connected to the bottom of the oxygen cylinder, the top of the oxygen cylinder, and/or somewhere between the top and bottom ends of the oxygen cylinder. The oxygen cylinder holder can include multiple distinct components, one of which holds one part of the oxygen cylinder and another component holds a different part of the cylinder.

One embodiment of an oxygen cylinder holder is provided in Figures 10-17. In this embodiment, the oxygen cylinder holder comprises multiple components, an upper cylinder holder 500 and a lower cylinder holder 510. The upper cylinder holder can be an arm that couples to the upper portion of the oxygen cylinder, while the lower cylinder holder is shaped to couple to the bottom portion of the oxygen cylinder. "Coupled" means that the connection between the oxygen cylinder and the mobility aid is reversible yet securely fixed. This makes it easy for a caregiver or even a patient receiving oxygen from an oxygen cylinder to swap out the oxygen cylinder and facilitates use.

"Arm" refers to the ability to circumferentially secure the oxygen cylinder. In one aspect, the arm partially surrounds the circumference of the oxygen cylinder, such as by a clasp that receives the oxygen cylinder. Alternatively, as depicted in Figure 10, the arm can be a ring having an internal passage 501 so that an oxygen cylinder can be placed in the internal passage and the bottom of the oxygen cylinder rests on one of the base legs. Optionally, the upper cylinder holder is rotationally positionable relative to the base so that the bottom of the oxygen cylinder is supported by the first base leg or the second base leg as desired. The rotation can be at the torso or another location, such as at a mounting arm via a swivel connection 520.

For additional support, such as to ensure that the bottom of the oxygen cylinder does not slide off the base leg, a lower cylinder holder 510 can be connected to or formed by one of the base legs. For example, the base leg can be formed to receive an oxygen cylinder in a hollow portion. Alternatively, and as shown in Figures 10-17, the lower cylinder holder can be connected to one of the base legs and have a receiving surface 512 and a circumferential flange 511 to ensure that the bottom surface of the oxygen cylinder is secured to and supported by the base leg. The lower cylinder holder can be connected to either base leg, such as by being interchangeably removable or by providing a lower cylinder holder on each base leg. In one aspect, the oxygen cylinder holds breathable or medical-grade oxygen. Typical cylinders include D or E cylinders, having a diameter of approximately 4 to 5 inches (e.g., 4.38 inches) and a height of approximately 16 to 26 inches (e.g., 16.5 inches or 25.5 inches). Other sized cylinders can be accommodated with correspondingly sized holders as needed.

FIG13 is a top view illustrating the upper and lower tank holders 500 and 510. This view illustrates that the oxygen cylinder can be effectively and reliably supported by the system. Furthermore, the oxygen cylinder can be easily installed and removed in a safe and easy manner, such as by vertically inserting/removing the cylinder through the internal passage 501 of the upper tank holder 500 and resting on the lower tank holder 510. The specific support point of the oxygen cylinder on the base leg (first or second base leg) can be selected as desired, such as on a longitudinally defined portion 530 of the arm of the first or second base leg. In one embodiment, the longitudinally defined portion can extend from the post to approximately half the length of the base leg arm, or any portion thereof, such as between approximately 10% and 40% of the base leg length as measured from the post.

Example 6: Power Management

It may be desirable to connect any of the mobility assistance devices provided herein to electric power. Figures 18-22 illustrate an embodiment of a mobility assistance device configured for electric power connection. On the one hand, electric power is provided by an electrical socket plate 610, which is then connected to a power source, such as a wall outlet (e.g., stationary situation) or a battery (e.g., electric power is needed during walking). The electrical socket plate 610 can be mounted to any convenient position of the device (e.g., base legs, columns, or poles). Figures 20-22 illustrate an embodiment of mounting the socket plate to a pole 60 via a socket plate mounting member, which includes a top bracket 620 connected to a first end 622 of the socket plate and a bottom bracket 630 connected to a second end 632 of the socket plate. Alternatively, the socket plate mounting member can be a single bracket that fixes the opposite sides of the socket plate. Figure 21 shows that the bracket can be rotatably connected to a pole to provide the ability of the power plate to face different directions. Similarly, the bracket can also be translated up and down along the rod to accommodate boards of different lengths or to position the board vertically at a desired height. Figure 22 shows that when a power board is not connected, the top bracket 620 and the bottom bracket 630 can be configured to nest with each other, thereby taking up minimal space on the rod. Such nesting is also referred to as a bracket storage configuration. The bracket can have a locking mechanism to facilitate positioning of the bracket, such as by a thumbscrew that is loosened for positioning and tightened to lock the bracket in place once the desired position is obtained.

Figures 18-19 illustrate a power cord management system 600 that includes a first cord management bracket 601 and a second cord management bracket 602. Such brackets provide a convenient system for storing cords, such as electrical outlet strip cords. Cords can be wrapped around the first cord management bracket 601 and the second cord management bracket 602, such as when there are excess cords or when the outlet strip is not plugged into a live wall outlet but it is desired to keep the outlet strip with a mobility aid. The distance above the pole surface between the first cord management bracket 601 and the second cord management bracket 602 is specifically referred to as the "longitudinal portion of the pole surface."

Any of the wire holders described herein can include an articulating wire hook. The articulating wire hook can be designed to have a larger footprint for receiving longer lengths of relatively thick wire, such as those often associated with medical devices. When the wire is not needed, the articulation allows the hook to be positioned in a closed configuration so that the hook is aligned with the post surface. During use, the hook can be opened and extended from the post. A leaf spring can be used to provide the ability to snap open and close the articulating wire hook.

Figures 23-35 show additional embodiments of a mobility assistance device and/or infusion management system. Figures 23-26 illustrate multiple components of the device in either an expanded or stored configuration, including, for example, a mobility handle, an oxygen cylinder holder, a mounting arm (compare Figures 23-24 with Figure 25), and base legs (compare Figures 23-25 with Figure 26). Also shown is a geometric configuration of the mobility handle characterized as an "outwardly swept" configuration. Outwardly swept refers to a portion of the mobility handle having an angle or curvature formed between the proximal end 710 and the distal end 720 of the mobility handle (Figure 28, right). In one aspect, the proximal and distal ends form an angle selected from a range greater than or equal to 90° and less than or equal to 160°. In one aspect, the outwardly swept configuration mobility handle remains within the confines of the expanded base footprint or within a substantial portion thereof, such as being positioned within at least approximately 80%, 60%, or 40% of its linear length in an area vertically aligned with the base footprint. In one aspect, the proximal end 710 is aligned in a generally parallel configuration with the underlying base leg, and the distal end is swept in an outward direction relative to the centerline of the device. Such a configuration improves ergonomics, provides a wider hand span, and provides better clearance when the handle is in a stored or stowed configuration (see, for example, Figures 26-27).

One important feature includes the ability to "overcenter" the base arms or legs. For example, gas springs (visible at 170 in FIG. 9 ) force the base legs tightly against the post, eliminating the need for clips or fasteners to hold the legs in place in the stored configuration. Deployment requires lifting the top end of the post and pushing each leg past the overcenter point away from the post. Once the legs are forced past the overcenter point, they are easily moved to the deployed configuration. This arrangement is advantageous because it keeps the legs much neater and eliminates the need for separate leg deployment or release handles.

FIG28 illustrates a mobility handle having an outwardly angled geometry (swept-out configuration) to improve ergonomics, provide better control with a wider hand spread, and improve clearance when the handle is stored (as seen, for example, in FIG27 ). FIG28 also schematically illustrates the geometry of the proximal end (710) and distal end (720) and the sweep angle θ (730). In one aspect, the proximal end and the distal end are connected in a curved geometry (lower right schematic) to avoid sharp edges or corners. In one aspect, the proximal end and the distal end are connected to form a sharp angle (upper right schematic). In one aspect, the sweep angle 730 is greater than about 90° and less than about 180°, such as between about 90° and 160°, any subrange thereof, or about 145°.

FIG29 shows a close-up view of the mobility handle 70, oxygen cylinder holder 500, and mounting arm 150 in the deployed configuration. FIG30 shows these components in the stored configuration. In one aspect, the mounting arm is used to secure a chest drain. In one aspect, the mounting arm is curved. In one aspect, the mounting arm is straight. In one aspect, the mounting arm has a distal fastener to prevent a medical device, including a chest drain, from sliding off the arm. FIG31A is a close-up view of the deployed oxygen cylinder holder and mounting arm, and FIG31B shows a corresponding oxygen cylinder connected to the oxygen cylinder holder and a corresponding chest drain connected to the mounting arm, respectively. Optionally, a hook (not shown) is centered in the holder, protruding approximately 1 inch from the holder, for holding a urinary catheter bag. The deployment mechanism, illustrated as a pull knob 3110 in FIG31C , can be extended to release the mounting arm or cylinder holder for rotation into the stored configuration. For easy deployment, the stored mounting arm or bottle holder can be rotated into the deployed configuration without engaging the pull button. Alternatively, a button can be pressed to release the mounting arm or bottle holder for rotation into the stored configuration.

In one aspect, an IV bag hook apparatus comprising a plurality of retainers 140 can be rotated 180°. Figures 32A-32D show an IV bag hook apparatus with retainers 140, wherein the retainers are directed toward the patient (Figures 32A and 32C "backward deployed configuration") and away from the patient (Figures 32B and 32D "forward deployed configuration") in the pole storage configuration (Figures 32A and 32B) and the pole deployed configuration (Figures 32B and 32D). This aspect is particularly advantageous because it allows the bag and associated tubes to be moved forward and higher, and it is intended to provide better headroom and visibility for taller patients when walking around when the pole is deployed to place the fluid bag in the upper configuration. In addition, the hook apparatus can be quickly removed and reinstalled as needed. Therefore, in one embodiment, the hook apparatus is removably connected to the pole.

Figure 33 illustrates that the front wheels can be operably connected to brakes. For example, the casters can have brakes at the nose to provide easier access for a healthcare provider when placing the device, such as by a bedside or in a toilet. In one aspect, all four wheels supporting the device and connected to the ground surface are operably connected to brakes.

Figure 34 is a close-up view of a mobility handle platform, which is connected to a post by an engagement mechanism 78 (visible in, for example, Figure 8) that is provided in the form of an engagement button 3410 to release the handle when folding or rotating the handle to a storage position. A series of fasteners 3420 can be used to secure pipes or lines (including IV tubes and oxygen tubes) to the device. In one embodiment, the number of fasteners on each side is greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 6. On the one hand, there are four fasteners on each side.

Figure 35 illustrates a T-shaped power management hook 3510, for example, connected to a pole or a rod. Other equipment can be hung or secured to the hook as desired.

Any of the devices and methods provided herein can have an accessory module 3600 operably connected to a column, as shown in Figures 36A-36C. An engagement mechanism 3610 can be used to facilitate deployment or storage of a mounting arm 150, such as a mounting arm for holding a chest drain (Figure 36A). The mounting arm can be rotatably connected to the accessory module (including a central portion 3602) such that engagement of the engagement mechanism 3610 allows the mounting arm to rotate from a deployed configuration (Figure 36B) to a stored configuration (Figure 36C). A holder 3620 (such as a hook) can be connected to the accessory module and is useful for holding, for example, a catheter bag. Alternatively or additionally, the holder can also be connected to the mounting arm 150 (see, for example, Figure 10). An upper oxygen cylinder holder can extend from the accessory module at an end opposite the mounting arm 150 (see, for example, Figures 31A-31C). As desired, any of the components extending from the accessory module can be independently removable as needed. Alternatively, the oxygen cylinder holder and mounting arm can be rotatably connected to the accessory module so that they can be rotated to the storage configuration when they are not needed. The accessory module is optionally translationally connected to the column to facilitate height adjustment of the accessory module by moving the central portion 3602 along the column. The accessory module is optionally removably connected to the column so that the entire accessory module can be removed as needed. This can be useful in situations where the patient does not need the medical equipment typically secured by the accessory module. The mounting arm and upper oxygen cylinder holder can be connected to the central portion at opposite ends, and the upper oxygen cylinder holder and the mounting arm can each extend in a direction that does not adversely interfere with the accessibility of the base footprint. In this way, the patient is able to step within the base footprint without being interfered with by the oxygen cylinder holder, mounting arm, or components connected to them.

The features described herein provide many advantages. For example, the IV hook can be easily removed and placed on the device, either alone or in combination. For example, this is particularly useful in situations where the patient requires assistance with ambulation but does not require IV fluid infusion. For example, the use of quick release clamps in any operable connection between components (such as pump mounting height adjustment and handle height adjustment) ensures that the components are securely maintained in a fixed position while retaining the ability to quickly and safely adjust, for example, the height or deployment condition. The bracket that holds the upper portion of the oxygen holder and the mounting arm allows the device to safely accommodate oxygen cylinders and chest drain equipment, and allows the bracket to be used without the oxygen holder and mounting arm by storing them when they are not in use. The gas spring is particularly useful for many functions, including the ability to deploy the unit and keep it deployed by avoiding inadvertent collapse, and the ability to make the device securely compact for storage and shipping.

Example 7: Tethered Connection

In some aspects, it may be desirable to secure the device to the patient and/or medical caregiver. In this way, the risk of an uncontrolled device event is minimized. For example, a tether can be attached to the device by the caregiver. Alternatively, a gait belt can be used. The other end of the tether or belt can be secured to the device. As illustrated in Figures 37-38. The tether port 3700 is positioned to pass through the mobility handle platform 72. The port can be centered along the centerline of the platform and can be, for example, oval. A vertical hook or similar device can be snapped through the tether port, where an attached tether extends to the patient's gait belt or other harness. The tether port passes through the structurally sound aluminum die-casting of the handle bracket.

Also illustrated is a quick release cam 3710 extending below the bottom surface 3720 of the mobility handle platform 72 for height adjustment of the first grip handle 75 and the second grip handle 76. The tether port is configured to receive and anchor a tether. Other features may be included as needed to alternatively secure a tether or other strap, such as a belt, loop and anchor, button fastener, etc., to further secure the user to the device. In this regard, the device is then secured to ensure that it cannot travel too far away from the user without adversely interfering with the user's stride or movement.

Example 8: Wheelchair Attachment

The device can also be connected to another mobility device, such as a wheelchair. In this regard, the user can move in the wheelchair and the mobility device of the present invention is connected to the wheelchair. An embodiment of a mechanism for receiving a connector that can then be connected to a wheelchair is provided in Figures 39-40. For example, a deployable connection port 3900 is operably connected to the first base leg 21 or equivalently connected to the second base leg (Figure 39A). Figure 39B illustrates that when the connection port is not needed (for example, the user is not in the wheelchair), the deployable connection port is stored in a storage configuration below the base leg 21. The deployable connection port 3900 can be formed within a deployable traction device 3910. Figure 40 illustrates a mechanism that can be used to operably (for example, movably) connect the deployable connection port to the base leg. A spring 3930 keeps the traction device in a retracted position or storage position, resulting in the connection port 3900 being effectively hidden below the base leg. Finger grips 3940 can be provided in the bottom surface of the traction device 3910 to facilitate deployment of the connection port 3900. In this aspect, the deployable connection port is configured to receive a connector that connects another ambulatory device (such as a wheelchair) to the device. However, when the deployable connection port is not needed, it can be stored. In one aspect, a pair of connection ports are provided, one on each base leg. In this way, two connectors are securely connected to each side of the device, and therefore to the left and right sides of the wheelchair. This results in a substantially rigid and fixed connection between the wheelchair and the mobility device of the present invention, allowing a caregiver (nurse) to push the wheelchair and mobility device together as a unit. With conventional equipment, a second caregiver is often required to move the IV pole while the primary caregiver pushes the wheelchair with the patient.

All references cited throughout this application, such as patent documents, including issued or granted patents or their equivalents; patent application publications; and non-patent literature documents or other source materials, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, even if individually incorporated by reference, to the extent that each reference is not inconsistent with the disclosure in this application (e.g., a partially inconsistent reference is incorporated except for the partially inconsistent portion of the reference). In particular, the devices, components, arrangements, and connections described in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,136,773 (173-06), 8,534,616 (173-06A), and 8,662,458 (153-09), and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013/0270799 filed on March 14, 2013 (173-06B), are incorporated by reference.

Unless otherwise stated, every concept or combination of components described or illustrated herein can be used to practice the invention.

Whenever a range (e.g., a size range or an angle range) is given in this specification, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values contained in the given range are intended to be included in the present disclosure. It should be understood that any subrange or any individual value in a range or subrange contained in the specification herein is already within the scope claimed herein.

All patents and publications mentioned in the specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. References cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to indicate prior art as of their publication or filing dates and with the intention that this information may be employed herein to exclude specific embodiments in the prior art, if necessary.

As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unenumerated elements or method steps. As used herein, "consisting of excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim elements. As used herein, the term "consisting essentially of does not exclude materials or steps that do not substantially affect the basis and novel characteristics of the claim. In each case herein, the terms "comprising," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting of" can be replaced by any of the other two terms. The invention illustratively described herein can be practiced in the absence of any one element or elements, limitation or limitations not specifically disclosed herein.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, without undue experimentation, materials and methods other than those specifically exemplified may be employed in the practice of the present invention. All functional equivalents known in the art for any such materials and methods are intended to be included in the present invention. The terms and expressions that have been adopted are used as descriptive terms rather than restrictions, and are not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or parts thereof using these terms and expressions, and it will be appreciated that various modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it will be understood that, although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art may adopt optional features, modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (95)

1. A mobility assistive device, comprising: A column having a top end, a bottom end, and an outer surface extending between the top end and the bottom end; A base comprising a first base leg and a second base leg to form a double-sided base occupancy area, wherein one end of each of the first base leg and the second base leg is connected to the post to form a vertex region, and the post and the double-sided base occupancy area form a post angle, wherein the post angle is an acute angle such that at least a portion of the post extends within a region that extends vertically from the double-sided base occupancy area; A rod is attached to the post for securing a medical component, wherein the rod has a longitudinal axis spaced apart from the outer surface of the post, wherein the rod is positioned outside the post and at least partially beside the post, and the spaced distance between the rod and the post provides space for securing one or more medical components in a rod storage configuration. A movable handle is attached to the post or the base; The first round is connected to the first base leg; The second round is connected to the second base leg; The third wheel is connected to the vertex region, wherein each of the wheels is configured to stably contact the support surface on which the device rests, and the mobility handle is configured to receive applied force to allow the device to move stably on the support surface. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the rod is extendable to provide a rod tip that extends controllably relative to the top of the column. 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the rod is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the column, the outer surface of the column, or both. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the rod is substantially vertical relative to the dual-side base occupied area and is positioned within a region extending vertically from the dual-side base occupied area. 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the rod is connected to a top portion of the column and a bottom portion of the column. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the connection between the rod and the top portion of the column includes a top connector extending from the top of the column and having a passage for receiving the rod. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the rod comprises an upper rod portion and a lower rod portion, wherein the upper rod portion and the lower rod portion are telescopically connected to provide an extendable rod having an adjustable rod length. 8. The device of claim 7 further includes a bottom connector for securing the bottom portion of the extendable rod to the bottom end of the column. 9. The device of claim 7 further includes a quick-release clamp operably connecting the upper rod portion and the lower rod portion for controlling the rod length. 10. The device of claim 2, wherein the extendable rod has a tip that is controllably positioned relative to the tip of the column, the tip of the rod being spaced apart from the tip of the column by a selectable interval greater than 0 cm and less than or equal to 1 m. 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the rod has a rod tip, and the device further includes a retainer or plurality of retainers connected to the rod tip for securing a medical component. 12. The device of claim 11, comprising a plurality of retainers, each of the plurality of retainers extending from the top of the rod in a non-forward direction. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the first retainer and the second retainer are extendable relative to each other in a leftward and rightward direction with respect to the device, and at least two additional retainers are uniformly rotatably spaced apart and extend in a rearward or forward direction. 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the retainer is rotatably connected to the top of the rod, the rotatable connection providing a configuration in which the retainer is deployed forward and a configuration in which it is stored backward. 15. The device of claim 1, wherein the column angle is selected from the range of greater than or equal to 50° and less than or equal to 85°. 16. The device according to claim 1, wherein the column angle is 70°. 17. The device of claim 2, wherein the extendable rod has at least one retainer at one top end of the extendable rod and at least one retainer at one bottom end of the extendable rod. 18. The device of claim 1, wherein the bottom end of the lever extends to a position corresponding to and vertically below the movable handle. 19. The device of claim 1, wherein the top end of the rod extends to a position that coincides with and is vertically above the top end of the column. 20. The device of claim 1, further comprising a fourth wheel connected to the vertex region, wherein the third wheel and the fourth wheel are aligned relative to each other and separated by a gap distance greater than or equal to 5 cm and less than or equal to 50 cm. 21. The device according to any one of claims 1-20, further comprising a fifth wheel connected to the vertex region or base, wherein the fifth wheel is located at a position offset rearward relative to the third wheel and the fifth wheel is vertically offset from each of the first, second, and third wheels such that during movement of the device, in the deployed configuration of the device, the first to third wheels stably contact the support surface and the fifth wheel does not contact the support surface. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein in a device storage configuration, the first wheel, the second wheel, and the fifth wheel stably contact a support surface and the third wheel is vertically offset from the support surface to provide controlled movement of the device under an applied force in the device storage configuration. 23. The device of claim 20 further includes a fifth and a sixth wheel, the fifth and the sixth wheel being contact wheels connected to the vertex region or the base, wherein each of the first, second, third and fourth wheels stably contacts the support surface in the deployed configuration of the device during movement of the device, and the contact wheels are vertically offset and do not contact the support surface. 24. The device of claim 23, wherein in a storage configuration, each of the touch wheels contacts the support surface when the column is tilted relative to the support surface, thereby improving the maneuverability of the device above the support surface in a storage configuration. 25. The device of claim 1, further comprising a mounting arm connected to the post and extending in a direction that lies within a region extending vertically from the dual-side base occupied area. 26. The device of claim 25, wherein the mounting arm is rotatably connected to the column to provide a mounting arm deployment configuration and a mounting arm storage configuration. 27. The device of claim 1, wherein the movable handle is translatably connected to the post, and the movable handle is longitudinally translated over at least one longitudinal portion of the post between the top and bottom ends to provide height adjustment of the movable handle. 28. The device of claim 27, wherein the translational connection between the movable handle and the column comprises: A groove in the outer surface of the column and a movable handle member that operably engages the groove to releasably position the movable handle at a desired height from the base. 29. The device of claim 27, wherein the movable handle translatably connected to the column provides controllable height adjustability, the controllable height being selected from a vertical height relative to the base that is greater than or equal to 2 feet and less than or equal to 6 feet. 30. The device of claim 1, wherein the movable handle further comprises: A platform having a first platform end and a second platform end that are relatively oriented towards each other; The first grip handle is attached to the second platform end; A second grip handle is attached to the second platform end; The first platform end is translatably connected to the column to provide longitudinal translation along the column. 31. The device of claim 30, wherein the first grip handle and the second grip handle are configured to receive walking force from a user's first hand and a user's second hand. 32. The device of claim 31, wherein the first grip handle and the second grip handle are removably connected to the platform. 33. The device of claim 31, wherein the first grip handle and the second grip handle are rotatably connected to the platform to provide a grip handle deployment configuration and a grip handle storage configuration. 34. The device of claim 33, wherein the rotatable connection between the first grip handle and the second grip handle includes a quick-release cam. 35. The device of claim 30, wherein the first grip handle and the second grip handle extend from the platform along a plane that is generally parallel to the base plane defined by the first base leg and the second base leg. 36. The device of claim 30, wherein the first grip handle and the second grip handle are positioned within an area vertically aligned with the dual-side base occupied area. 37. The device of claim 30, wherein the first platform end is shaped to conform to the shape of a portion of the outer surface of the column joined by the first platform end. 38. The device of claim 37, wherein the column includes an inwardly facing surface facing the dual-side base occupied area, and the first platform end engages the inwardly facing surface. 39. The apparatus of claim 30, further comprising: A tethering port provides a passage through the mobility handle platform to receive a tether and secure the tether to the device. 40. The device of claim 1, wherein the mobility handle comprises a first grip handle and a second grip handle, each of the first grip handle and the second grip handle being linear and extending from the post at a grip angle that is acute. 41. The device of claim 40, wherein the grip angle is selected from the range of 30° or greater and less than 90°. 42. The device of claim 40, wherein the first grip handle is substantially aligned with the first base leg and the second grip handle is substantially aligned with the second base leg. 43. The device of claim 1, wherein the mobility handle comprises a first grip handle and a second grip handle, each of the first grip handle and the second grip handle having at least one non-linear portion. 44. The device of claim 43, wherein each of the first grip handle and the second grip handle includes a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end connecting the distal end to the post, wherein the proximal end and the distal end are connected in an outward sweep configuration and at an angle selected from the range of 90° or greater and 160° or less. 45. The device of claim 1, wherein each of the first base leg and the second base leg is rotatably connected to the bottom end of the column to provide a storage configuration and an unfolded configuration, wherein the first base leg and the second base leg are generally parallel to the column, and wherein the first base leg and the second base leg form an acute angle with the column in the unfolded configuration. 46. The device of claim 45, wherein the rotatable connection between the first base leg and the second base leg to the bottom end of the column includes a gas spring that generates an unfolding force to unfold the first base leg and the second base leg. 47. The device of claim 46, wherein storing the first base leg and the second base leg requires a storage force, and the storage force is greater than the unfolding force. 48. The device of claim 47 further includes an anti-collapse mechanism to prevent the base from being neglected in the storage configuration. 49. The device of claim 48, wherein the anti-collapse mechanism includes a safety lever that must be released before the base can be stored from the deployed configuration. 50. The device of claim 1, wherein one of the infusion pumps is mounted to the rod at an off-horizontal angle. 51. The device according to any one of claims 1-19 and 25-50, comprising a storage configuration and an unfolding configuration. The storage configuration has a storage volume less than or equal to 50″ × 10.5″ × 10″ or 5250 cubic inches, and the unfolded configuration has an unfolded volume greater than or equal to 30″ (length between the front edge of the column and the rear of the first and second base legs) × 48″ (vertical height of the column (pole storage) or 80″ pole extension) × 27″ (width corresponding to the maximum distance between the rear ends of the first and second base legs) or greater than 38880 cubic inches; or It has a storage ratio of less than or equal to 15%, which is defined as the ratio of storage volume to unfolded volume. 52. The device according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the outer surfaces of the rod and the column is greater than or equal to 1 cm and less than or equal to 5 cm. 53. The device of claim 1 further includes an oxygen cylinder holder connected to the post for securely holding the oxygen cylinder. 54. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the oxygen cylinder holder comprises: An upper cylinder holder, which is connected to the column to couple with the upper portion of the oxygen cylinder; and A lower cylinder holder is connected to either the first base leg or the second base leg to couple with the base portion of an oxygen cylinder. 55. The device of claim 54, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder includes an arm for securing an oxygen cylinder in an axial position. 56. The device of claim 55, wherein the arm is a fastener. 57. The device of claim 55, wherein the arm is a ring having an internal passage configured to receive an oxygen cylinder. 58. The device of claim 57, wherein the ring is connected to the torso. 59. The device of claim 58, wherein the ring is rotatably positionable relative to the first base leg and the second base leg to receive an oxygen cylinder on the first base leg or the second base leg. 60. The device according to any one of claims 53-59, wherein the lower cylinder holder includes a receiving surface and a circumferential flange for receiving the bottom surface of an oxygen cylinder. 61. The device of claim 60, further comprising a second lower bottle holder, wherein the first lower bottle holder is connected to the first base leg, and the second lower bottle holder is connected to the second base leg. 62. The device of claim 61, wherein the lower cylinder holder is reversibly connected to the first base leg or the second base leg such that the oxygen cylinder is supported by the first base leg or the second base leg. 63. The device of claim 54 further includes an oxygen cylinder, wherein the oxygen cylinder is in an upright position and supported by the first base leg or the second base leg, wherein the oxygen cylinder is optionally a D-cylinder (4.38" diameter and 16.5" height) or an E-cylinder (4.38" diameter and 25.5" height). 64. The device of claim 54, wherein the oxygen cylinder holder is configured to secure the oxygen cylinder to a longitudinally defined portion of the arm of the first base leg or the arm of the second base leg, the longitudinally defined portion extending from the post to approximately half the length of the arm of the base leg. 65. The device of claim 54, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder is connected to the column via a mounting arm, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder is rotatably connected to the mounting arm. 66. The device of claim 1 further includes a socket plate mounter connected to the rod for securely receiving a socket plate. 67. The device of claim 66, wherein the socket plate mounting member comprises: A top bracket, configured to connect to one end of the socket plate; and A base bracket, configured to connect to the second end of the socket plate. The second end of the socket board is opposite to the first end of the socket board. 68. The device of claim 67, wherein the top support, the bottom support, or both the top support and the bottom support are vertically and rotatably adjustable to independently position a socket plate in any vertical and rotatable position relative to the rod. 69. The device of claim 67, wherein the top bracket and the bottom bracket are nestable relative to each other to provide a bracket storage configuration when no socket plate is connected to the top bracket or the bottom bracket. 70. The device of claim 66 further includes a socket plate that is reversibly connected to the socket plate mount. 71. The device of claim 1, further comprising a first wire management bracket and a second wire management bracket, each of the first wire management bracket and the second wire management bracket being connected to the post and spaced apart from each other by a distance, wherein the first wire management bracket and the second wire management bracket receive wire in a winding configuration and reliably secure the wound wire to a longitudinal portion of the post surface. 72. The device of claim 1, further comprising a gas spring operably connected to the first base leg and the second base leg and the post, wherein in a device storage configuration, the gas spring forces the first base leg and the second base leg past the center and tightly nested into the post. 73. The device of claim 72, wherein forcing the first base leg and the second base leg away from the central storage configuration requires an applied force. 74. The device of claim 1, further comprising a fitting module connected to the column, wherein the fitting module comprises: A central section, which is connected to the column; A mounting arm, which is rotatably connected to the central portion; and An upper oxygen cylinder holder is rotatably connected to the central part. 75. The device of claim 74, wherein the mounting arm and the upper oxygen cylinder holder are connected to the central portion at opposite ends, and each of the upper oxygen cylinder holder and the mounting arm extends in a direction that does not adversely interfere with the movement of the device. 76. The device of claim 75 further includes a retainer connected to the central portion and positioned between the mounting arm and the upper oxygen cylinder retainer. 77. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: An expandable connection port is operably connected to either the first base leg or the second base leg; The expandable connection port is configured to receive a connector for connecting a wheelchair to the device. 78. The device of claim 77, wherein in a storage configuration, the deployable connection port is located below the first base leg or the second base leg. 79. A mobility assistive device, comprising: A column having a base and a top; A base including a first base leg and a second base leg to form a double-sided base occupancy area, wherein one end of each of the first base leg and the second base leg is connected to the bottom end of a post to form a vertex region, and the post and the base occupancy area form a post angle having an acute angle such that the post extends within a region that extends vertically from the double-sided base occupancy area; The first round is connected to the first base leg; The second round is connected to the second base leg; The third wheel is connected to the vertex region, wherein each of the wheels is configured to stably contact a support surface on which the device rests; A height-adjustable movable handle is attached to the post, wherein the height-adjustable movable handle translates along at least one longitudinal portion of the post between its top and bottom ends, wherein the movable handle is configured to receive an applied force to allow the device to move stably above a supporting surface under the applied force; and A rod is attached to the post for securing a medical component, wherein the rod has a longitudinal axis spaced apart from the outer surface of the post, wherein the rod is positioned outside the post and at least partially adjacent to the post, and the spaced distance between the rod and the post provides space for securing one or more medical components in a rod storage configuration. 80. The mobility aid of claim 79, wherein the rod is connected to the top portion and the bottom portion of the post, wherein a central portion of the rod is separated from the post by the interval distance. 81. The mobility aid of claim 79, wherein the mobility handle comprises a platform having a flange around an outer circumferential portion to support material within an inner portion of the platform and prevent the material from slipping off the platform. 82. The mobility aid of claim 1 or 79 further includes a fourth wheel connected to the vertex region, wherein the third wheel and the fourth wheel are substantially aligned and separated by a gap to form a front edge, and the dual-side base occupancy area also includes the front edge having a length corresponding to the gap between the third wheel and the fourth wheel, thereby resulting in an open trapezoidal base occupancy area. 83. The mobility aid of claim 79 further includes an oxygen cylinder holder for securely holding an oxygen cylinder to the mobility aid. 84. A mobility assistive device, comprising: A pillar, The first base leg is connected to the post; The second base leg is connected to the post; The first base leg and the second base leg form a double-sided base occupying area, and the column and the base occupying area form a column angle with an acute angle such that the column extends within the area that extends vertically from the double-sided base occupying area; An oxygen cylinder retainer includes: An upper cylinder retainer is attached to the post to couple to the upper part of an oxygen cylinder; and A lower cylinder retainer is connected to either the first base leg or the second base leg to couple with the base portion of an oxygen cylinder. 85. The device of claim 84, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder includes an arm for securing an oxygen cylinder in an axial position. 86. The device of claim 85, wherein the arm is a fastener. 87. The device of claim 85, wherein the arm is a ring having an internal passage configured to receive an oxygen cylinder. 88. The device of claim 87, wherein the ring is connected to the torso. 89. The device of claim 87, wherein the ring is rotatably positionable relative to the first base leg and the second base leg to receive an oxygen cylinder on the first base leg or the second base leg. 90. The device of claim 84, wherein the lower cylinder holder includes a receiving surface and a circumferential flange for receiving the bottom surface of an oxygen cylinder. 91. The device of claim 84, further comprising a second lower bottle holder, wherein the first lower bottle holder is connected to the first base leg and the second lower bottle holder is connected to the second base leg. 92. The device of claim 84, wherein the lower cylinder holder is reversibly connected to the first base leg or the second base leg, such that an oxygen cylinder is supported by the first base leg or the second base leg. 93. The device according to any one of claims 84-92 further includes an oxygen cylinder, wherein the oxygen cylinder is in an upright position and supported by the first base leg or the second base leg, wherein the oxygen cylinder is optionally a D-cylinder (4.38" diameter and 16.5" height) or an E-cylinder (4.38" diameter and 25.5" height). 94. The device according to any one of claims 84-92, wherein the oxygen cylinder holder is configured to secure an oxygen cylinder to a longitudinally defined portion of the arm of the first base leg or the arm of the second base leg, the longitudinally defined portion extending from the post to approximately half the length of the arm of the base leg. 95. The device according to any one of claims 84-92, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder is connected to the column via a mounting arm, wherein the upper oxygen cylinder holder is rotatably connected to the mounting arm.