WO2025034327A1

WO2025034327A1 - Stabilization device

Info

Publication number: WO2025034327A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/036789
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lisa Peterson
Original assignee: Swede Support LLC
Current assignee: Swede Support LLC
Priority date: 2023-07-03
Filing date: 2024-07-03
Publication date: 2025-02-13
Anticipated expiration: 2026-01-03

Abstract

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a device for bedside or over-the-toilet toileting and showering. In particular, the device stabilizes a user while toileting and showering. The stabilization device generally includes a back support and frame, where the frame has a first side frame and a second side frame. Each side frame includes a side rail, an arm support, and a base. Additionally, in another embodiment, the stabilization device further includes two footrests to provide support for those when moving about within a building. The device can be portable and thus may be used in hospitals, at home, or in any facility where a user may need extra support to help with equilibrium and stability issues. The device is 34 lbs., lightweight and is folded for compact, easy storage.

Description

STABILIZATION DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S C. § 1 19 to provisional application Serial No. 63/511,757 filed July 3, 2023, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a device for stabilization, in particular, a device that stabilizes a user by providing “total” spinal support.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Toilet and shower support devices are well known. However, known support assemblies can cause distress and even injury to a user who is already in a fragile state, while attempting to use or move such a support device. Toilet support devices, such as elevated or raised toilet seats, lack stability even though they may make it easier for a user to mount and dismount a toilet seat. Many raised toilet seats are merely padded risers secured with hook and loop fasteners or non-skid pads. Additionally, many raised toilet seats have a maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs., limiting users who do not meet that capacity.

[0004] Toilet safety frames, toilet support frames, and toilet safety rails are also well known. A problem with many of these safety frames is that while they provide side stabilization via side rails for a user to grip, they lack any type of support for the torso. Because of the lack of support for the torso, a user who is unstable can easily fall forward and suffer an injury. Many of these devices also do not conform or adjust to the contour of a user’s back and neck or provide support for the user’s head.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a device for toileting and showering, in particular, the device may provide stabilization to a user while toileting with increased spinal support. The stabilization device generally includes a spinal support and a frame, where the frame has a first side frame and a second side frame. Each side frame includes a side rail, an arm support, and a base. Additionally, in another embodiment, the stabilization device further comprises two foot inserts to provide support for those while moving about within a building and a seat and supporting frame for supporting the user in a seated position. Further aspects provide a removable seat portion for using a bedside commode or toilet. An adjustable backrest and headrest provide total spinal support. Adjustable armrests and legs allow device to conform to individual users. Lockable casters on each leg provide additional maneuverability. The device is collapsible and portable and thus may be used in hospitals, at home, or in any facility where a user may need extra support to help with equilibrium and stability issues.

[0006] According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a device for toileting and showering, in particular, the device may provide stabilization to a user while toileting with increased spinal support. The stabilization device generally includes a spinal support and a frame, where the frame has a first side frame and a second side frame. Each side frame includes a side rail, an arm support, and a base. Additionally, in another embodiment, the stabilization device further comprises two foot inserts to provide support for those while moving about within a building. The device is portable and thus may be used in hospitals, at home, or in any facility where a user may need extra support to help with equilibrium and stability issues.

[0007] The stabilization device can allow for safe transfers both on and off a standard toilet and can accommodate people who range in height from 4’11” to 6’3” and weigh up to 300 lbs. The device may allow post-operative patients, those with neurological disorders, or seniors to maintain independent living and reduce or obliterate bathroom-related falls. The device may therefore fill the need for new, innovative, and adaptive medical equipment that supports the entire cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal column while toileting and showering. The device is lightweight and foldable for compact, easy storage. The device is portable, and thus, may be used in hospitals, at home, or in any facility where a user may need extra support to help with equilibrium and stability issues.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The nature and mode of operation of the present disclosure will now be more fully described in the following detailed description of the disclosure taken with the accompanying drawing figures, in which:

[0009] FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a stabilization device in accordance with another exemplary aspect of the invention;

[0010] FIG. IB is a top elevation view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1 A;

[0011] FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1A; [0012] FIG. ID is a right side elevation view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1 A;

[0013] FIG. 2A is a rear perspective view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1 A, showing the device in a folded (closed) position;

[0014] FIG. 2B is a top elevation view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 2A;

[0015] FIG. 2C is a right side elevation view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 2A;

[0016] FIG. 2D is a rear perspective view of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 2A;

[0017] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a seat frame of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D;

[0018] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an upper front leg assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D;

[0019] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an upper rear leg assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 11A-11D;

[0020] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an upper front leg tube of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D;

[0021] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an upper front leg tube of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D;

[0022] FIGS. 8 is a rear perspective view of a lower front leg assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1A-1D, showing the assembly terminating in a caster wheel;

[0023] FIGS. 9 is a rear perspective view of a lower rear leg assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIG. 1A-1D, showing the assembly terminating in a caster wheel;

[0024] FIG. 10A is a perspective view a leg hinge assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, showing one side of the assembly;

[0025] FIG. 10B is a perspective view a leg hinge assembly shown in FIG. 10A, showing the opposite side of the assembly;

[0026] FIG. 10C is a sectional view of the leg hinge assembly taken along line A-A in FIG. 10A, showing the leg locking mechanisms;

[0027] FIG. 11 is a right side elevation view of a backrest assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D, showing amongst other things the armrest locking mechanism;

[0028] FIG. 11 A is a sectional view of the armrest locking mechanism taken along line A-A in FIG. 11;

[0029] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a backrest frame of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D, showing amongst other things the lockouts for the armrest and backrest assembly;

[0030] FIG. 13 A is a front perspective view of a right footrest assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, showing amongst other things the footrest hinge for rotating the footrest generally between horizontal and vertical positions;

[0031] FIG. 13B is a front perspective view a left footrest assembly of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D, showing amongst other things the footrest hinge for rotating the footrest generally between horizontal and vertical positions;

[0032] FIG. 14 is a front side elevation view of a bedside commode of the stabilization device shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, showing amongst other things buckle hinges for removably securing the bedside commode to the seat frame shown in FIG. 3;

[0033] FIG. 15A is a rear perspective view of the stabilization device, showing adjustment features for the backrest and headrest in accordance with another exemplary aspect of the invention;

[0034] FIG. 15B is an enlarged perspective view of the backrest adjustment features shown in FIG. 15 A;

[0035] FIG. 15C is an elevation view of the exterior side of the backrest adjustment feature shown in FIG. 15B;

[0036] FIG. 15D is an enlarged perspective view of the headrest adjustment features shown in FIG.

15 A;

[0037] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a method of use for the stabilization device in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method for collapsing or folding the stabilization device in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention; and

[0039] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a method for deploying or unfolding the stabilization device in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements of the disclosure. It also should be appreciated that figure proportions and angles are not always to scale in order to clearly portray the attributes of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the drawings set forth exemplary aspects of a stabilization device and no one drawing is limited in its application to other drawings as structural elements and their corresponding functionality can be interchangeable across the various aspects shown.

[0041] FIG. 1 A is a front perspective view of a “three-in-one” stabilization device 100, hereinafter referred to as “device” 100 for use as a toilet, a commode, and shower chair. F IG . 1 A is a front perspective view of one aspect of device 100, showing device 100 in an open position with a bedside commode 106A attached underneath a second seat portion 104B.

[0042] FIG. IB is a front elevational view of device 100 of FIG. 1 A.

[0043] FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of device 100 shown in FIG. 1 A, showing amongst other things a chest belt 117C and lap belt 117D for restraining and securing user seated within device 100.

[0044] FIG. ID is a right side elevation view of device 100 shown in FIG. 1A.

[0045] FIG. 2A is a rear perspective view of device 100 shown in FIG. 1A, showing device 100 in a folded (closed) position.

[0046] FIG. 2B is a top elevation view of device 100 shown in FIG. 2A.

[0047] FIG. 2C is a right side elevation view of device 100 shown in FIG. 2A.

[0048] FIG. 2D is a rear perspective view of device 100 shown in FIG. 2A.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a seat frame 102 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D. [0050] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an upper front leg assembly 160 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an upper rear leg assembly 150 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0052] FIG. 6 is another front perspective view of upper front leg assembly 160 shown in FIG. 4.

[0053] FIG. 7 is another front perspective view of upper rear leg assembly 150 shown in FIG. 5.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a lower front leg assembly 170 of device 100 shown in FIG. 1 A-1D, showing the assembly terminating in a caster wheel 179.

[0055] FIGS. 9 is a rear perspective view of a lower rear leg assembly 180 of device 100 shown in FIG. 1 A-1D, showing the assembly terminating in a caster wheel 189.

[0056] FIG. 10A is a perspective view a leg hinge assembly 140 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A- 1D, showing one side of a leg lock assembly 144 as part of assembly 140.

[0057] FIG. 10B is a perspective view leg hinge assembly 140 shown in FIG. 10A, showing the opposite side of leg lock assembly 144. [0058] FIG. 10C is a sectional view of the leg hinge assembly 140 taken along line A-A in FIG. 10A, showing detents 145A-B of leg lock assembly 144.

[0059] FIG. 11 is a right side elevation view of a back frame assembly 110 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D, showing amongst other things an armrest frame assembly 130B

[0060] FIG. HA is a perspective view of a lockout lever assembly 120 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0061] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a back frame assembly 110 of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 A-1D, showing amongst other things lockout brackets 116A-B for armrest assemblies 130A- B shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0062] FIG. 13A is a front perspective view of a right footrest assembly 190B of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, showing amongst other things a footrest hinge 198 for rotating a footrest 199 generally between horizontal and vertical positions.

[0063] FIG. 13B is a front perspective view of a left footrest assembly 190A of device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, showing amongst other things a footrest hinge 198 for rotating a footrest 199 generally between horizontal and vertical positions.

[0064] FIG. 14 is a front side elevation view of a bedside commode 106 of device shown in FIGS.

1 A- ID, showing amongst other things buckle hinges 108 for removably securing bedside commode 106 to seat frame assembly 102 shown in FIG. 3.

[0065] FIG. 15A is a rear perspective showing adjustment features for another backrest 119A and headrest 117A for device 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

[0066] FIG. 15B is an enlarged perspective view of a backrest frame tilting assembly with a lockout mounting brackets 107A, 116A shown in FIG. 15 A.

[0067] FIG. 15C is an elevation view of the exterior side of the backrest frame tilting assembly shown in FIG. 15B.

[0068] FIG. 15D is an enlarged perspective view of a headrest mounting assembly 111 with a headrest hinge 114A, hinge tilt bracket 114B, headrest mount 117B, backrest mount 119B, backrest adjustment stem 119C shown in FIG. 15 A.

[0069] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a method of use for device 100 in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method for collapsing or folding device 100 in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention. [0071] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a method for deploying or unfolding device 100 in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention.

[0072] In one aspect, device 100 generally includes headrest 117A, backrest 117B, seat frame assembly 102 and back frame assembly 110, where back frame 110A has mounting brackets 112A- B carrying respective lockout lever brackets 118A-B, mounting brackets 116, such as respective mounting brackets 116A-B for mounting to armrest frame assemblies 130A-B, and handles 118A-B for lifting and toting device 100 (Step 312). Mounting brackets 116, such as mounting brackets 116A-B generally include mounting and adjustment points, such as mounting point 116C, tilt adjustment point 116D, and stowed adjustment point 116E. Seat frame assembly 102 generally includes seat frame 102A, mounting brackets 107A-B for mounting to back frame assembly 110, rear leg hinge assembly mounting points 105A-B, front leg hinge assembly mounting points 103A-B, and first and second seat portions 104A-B. Bedside commode 106A is removably attached to seat frame 102A with buckle hinges 106B and second seat portion 104B is removable for use of device 100 as a bedside commode (Step 208). Bedside commode 106A and seat portion 104B are removed for using device 100 with a toilet when device 100 is placed or rolled over top of a toilet for a user to use toilet (Step 212). Device 100 can also be rolled into a walk-in shower for the user to shower while seated and supported by one or both seat portions 204A-B (Step 214). [0073] Device 100 generally includes leg hinge assemblies 140, such as leg hinge assemblies 140A- D. Leg hinge assemblies 140 generally include a pair of seat frame mounting points 142, leg lock assembly 144, release buttons 146A-B for actuating respective detents 145A-B to an open position, biasing members 147 A-B for biasing respective detents 145A-B to a closed position, leg catch assembly 148 with leg catch member 149.

[0074] Device 100 generally includes lockout lever assemblies 120, such as lockout lever assemblies 120A-H. Lockout lever assemblies 120 generally include lockout lever mounting bracket 128, lockout pin 122, retention member 126, and biasing member 124 acting on retention member 126 and lockout lever mounting bracket 128 for biasing lockout pin 122 to a closed position.

[0075] Device 100 generally includes upper front leg assembly 160, such as respective upper front left assemblies 160A-B. Upper front leg assembly 160 generally include seat frame mount 162, leg mount 164 with opposing orifices for receiving respective detents 145A-B of leg lock assembly 144, footrest mounting bracket 168 with a pair of footrest mounts 169, and lockout lever mounting bracket 128 for mounting lockout lever assembly 120 to upper front leg assembly 160.

[0076] Device 100 generally includes upper rear leg assemblies 150, such as respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B. Upper rear leg assemblies 150 generally include seat frame mount 152, lower leg mount 154 with opposing orifices for receiving respective detents 145A-B of leg lock assembly 144, leg lock catch bracket 158, and lockout lever mounting bracket 128 for mounting lockout lever assembly 120 to upper rear leg assembly 150.

[0077] Device 100 generally includes lower front leg assemblies 170, such as respective lower front leg assemblies 170A-B. Lower front leg assemblies 170A-B generally include leg post 172 with height adjustment holes 174 spaced equidistantly, caster wheel bearing 176, and caster wheel mounting bracket 178 with caster wheel 179 rotatably attached thereto. Caster wheel includes wheel locks attached to respective mounting brackets 178 and 188 of respective front leg assemblies 170 and 180 (Step 202).

[0078] Device 100 generally includes rear leg assemblies 180, such as respective rear leg assemblies 180A-B. Rear leg assemblies 180 generally include leg post 182 with height adjustment holes 184 spaced equidistantly, caster wheel bearing 186, and caster wheel mounting bracket 188 with caster wheel 189 rotatably attached thereto.

[0079] Device 100 generally includes armrest frame assemblies 130, such as respective armrest frame assemblies 130A-B. Armrest frame assemblies 130 generally include armrest frame 134 such as armrest frames 134A-B, armrest pad 132 such as armrest pads 132A-B attached to armrest frame 134 such as armrest frame 134A-B, hinge 136 such as hinges 136A-B, stowed adjustment point 137 such as stowed adjustment points 137A-B, hinge pin 138 such as hinge pins 138A-B for attaching respective hinges 136A-B to respective mounting brackets 116A-B, and lockout lever mounting bracket 128 for mounting lockout lever assembly 120 to respective armrest frames 134A-B. Respective armrest frames 134A-B include lockout lever assemblies 120. Pin 122 is received within and withdrawn from within the pair of tilting adjustment points 116D to adjust the tilt of respected armrest frame assemblies 130A-B and received within and withdrawn from within stowed adjustment point 116E to adjust respective armrest frame assemblies 130A-B from a generally horizontal position (i.e., generally parallel with seat frame assembly 102) to a stowed position, such as a generally vertical position and aligned with back frame assembly 110 (Step 210).

[0080] Device 100 generally includes footrest assemblies 190, such as respective footrest assemblies 190A-B. Footrest assemblies 190 generally include mounting bracket 192 with a pair of mounting points 194 for mounting to footrest mounts 169, stabilization bracket 196 for coupling to leg mount 164, footrest hinge 198, and footrest 199 rotatably attached to footrest hinge 198 for rotating footrest 199 generally between horizontal and vertical positions.

[0081] In one aspect, device 100 generally includes leg hinge assemblies 140A-D, upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B, and upper front leg assemblies 160A-B. Leg hinge assembly 140A generally houses the upper portion of upper rear leg assembly 150A, leg hinge assembly 140B generally houses the upper portion of upper rear leg assembly 150B. Similarly, leg hinge assembly 140C generally houses the upper portion of upper front leg assembly 160A and leg hinge assembly 140D generally houses the upper portion of upper front leg assembly 160B. For example, assembled leg hinge assembly 140A and upper rear leg assembly 150A are mounted to seat frame assembly 102 by securing seat framing mounting points 142 of leg hinge assembly 140A to rear leg assembly mounting points 105A of seat frame assembly 102. Similarly, assembled leg hinge assembly 140B and upper rear leg assembly 150B are mounted to seat frame assembly 102 by securing seat framing mounting points 142 of leg hinge assembly 140B to rear leg assembly mounting points 105B of seat frame assembly 102. Additionally, assembled leg hinge assembly 140C and upper front leg assembly 160A are mounted to seat frame assembly 102 by securing seat framing mounting points 142 of leg hinge assembly 140C to front leg assembly mounting points 103A of seat frame assembly 102. Similarly, assembled leg hinge assembly 140D and upper front leg assembly 160B are mounted to seat frame assembly 102 by securing seat framing mounting points 142 of leg hinge assembly 140D to front leg assembly mounting points 103B of seat frame assembly 102. Leg assembly mounting points 103A-B, 105A-B and seat frame mounting points 142 of leg hinge assemblies 140A-D can be secured together with a pin, nut and bolt, rivet, or other attachments.

[0082] In at least one aspect, device 100 generally includes lower front leg assemblies 170A-B, rear leg assemblies 180A-B, leg hinge assemblies 140A-D, upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B, and upper front leg assemblies 160A-B attached to and supporting seat frame assembly 102. For example, leg post 172 is adjustably received within leg mount 164 for securing lower front leg assembly 170 to upper front leg assembly 160 for adjustably securing lower front leg assemblies 170A-B to upper front leg assemblies 160A-B. Similarly, leg post 182 is adjustably received within lower leg mount 154 for securing rear leg assembly 180 to upper rear leg assembly 150 for adjustably securing rear leg assemblies 180A-B to upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B.

[0083] In at least one aspect, device 100 generally includes seat frame assembly 102 and back frame assembly 110. For example, seat frame assembly 102 generally includes mounting brackets 107, such as mounting brackets 107A-B and back frame assembly generally includes mounting brackets 112, such as mounting brackets 112A-B. Mounting brackets 107, such as mounting bracket 107A-B generally include lockout tilt adjustment points 109A-B, lockout folded position point 109C, and bracket hinge point 109D. Mounting brackets 112, such as mounting brackets 112A-B generally include hinge mounting point 113A and adjustment point 113B. Seat frame assembly 102 and back frame assembly 110 are assembled by connecting bracket hinge point 109D and hinge mounting point 113A with a pin, nut and bolt, rivet, or other attachments to allow mounting brackets 112A-B to rotate relative to mounting brackets 107A-B. Respective mounting brackets 112A-B include lockout lever assemblies 120. Pin 122 is received within and withdrawn from lockout tilt adjustment points 109A-B to adjust tilt and lock back frame assembly 110 in one of lockout tilt adjustment points 109A-B and received within and withdrawn from lockout folded position point 109C to adjust back frame assembly 110 to a folded position generally parallel to and adjacent seat frame assembly 102. Back frame assembly 110 is adjustable its tilt to the user’s back to provide comprehensive support of user’s spine (Step 210).

[0084] In at least one aspect, device 100 generally includes back frame assembly 110 and armrest frame assembly 130, such as armrest assemblies 130A-B. For example, back frame assembly generally includes mounting brackets 118, such as mounting brackets 118A-B and armrest assembly 130 generally includes mounting brackets 116, such as mounting brackets 116A-B. Respective armrest frame assemblies 130A-B and back frame assembly are assembled by connecting mounting points 116C with respective hinge points 136A-B with a pin, nut and bolt, rivet, or other attachments to allow respective armrest assemblies 132A-B to rotate relative to respective mounting brackets 116A-B.

[0085] In at least one aspect, device 100 generally includes upper front leg assembly 160 such as upper front leg assemblies 160A-B and footrest assemblies 190 such as footrest assemblies 190A-B. Upper front leg assemblies 160A-B generally include leg mount 164 with footrest mounting bracket 168 having a pair of footrest mounting points 169, leg lockout point 166, and lockout lever mounting bracket 128. Respective footrest mounts 169 on each mounting bracket 192 of respective footrest assemblies 190A-B are removably mounted to footrest mounting points 169 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B and stabilization bracket 196 of respective footrest assemblies 190A-B are removably supported by leg mount 164 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B. Hinges 198 of respective footrest assemblies 190A-B permit rotation of respective footrests 199 between generally vertical and horizontal positions (Step 206). Additionally, respective footrest assemblies 190A-B rotate relative to leg mount 164 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B, such as by being rotated inward toward each other or outward away from each other. Footrest assemblies 190A-B are removable from device 100. In one aspect, footrest assemblies 190A-B are rotated or removed to permit user access to device 100 from the front or side.

[0086] In at least one aspect, device 100 generally includes leg hinge assemblies 140 such as leg hinge assemblies 140A-D, upper front leg assembly 160 such as upper front leg assemblies 160A- B, upper rear leg assemblies 150 such as upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B, lower front leg assemblies 170 such as lower front leg assemblies 170A-B, and lower rear leg assemblies 180 such as lower rear leg assemblies 180A-B. Upper front leg assemblies 160A-B generally include leg lockout points 166 and upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B generally include leg lockout points 156. Lower front leg assemblies 170A-B generally include height adjustment holes 174 spaced equidistant along the length of leg post 172 and lower rear leg assemblies 180A-B generally incudes height adjustment holes 184 spaced equidistant along the length of leg post 182. Leg post 172 of respective lower front leg assemblies 170A-B is adjustably received within leg mount 164 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B and leg post 182 of respective lower rear leg assemblies 180A-B is adjustably received within leg mount 154 of respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B. Upper front leg assemblies 160A-B and upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B include lockout lever assembly operably attached via respective lockout lever mounting brackets 228. In the closed position, lockout pin 122 on respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B is received within mounting holes 174 in leg post 172 of respective lower leg assemblies 170A-B to lockout movement and adjust the forward or front seated height of device 100 (Step 204). Similarly, in the closed position, lockout pin 122 on respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B is received within mounting holes 184 in leg post 182 of respective lower leg assemblies 180A-B to lockout movement and adjust the rearward or rear seated height of device 100 (Step 204). In the open position, lockout pin 122 removed from within mounting holes 174 and 184 to permit movement and height adjustment of leg posts 172 and 182.

[0087] In one aspect, device 100 generally includes backrest 119A removably secured to back frame assembly 110 and headrest 117A secured to backrest 119A with headrest mounting assembly 111. For example, headrest mounting assembly 111 generally includes backrest mount 119B attached to backrest 119A, headrest mount 117B attached to headrest 117A, hinge 114A attached to backrest mount 119B and headrest mount 117B to rotate headrest 117A relative to backrest 119A, and hinge tilt bracket 114B to control the tilt of headrest 117A forward and rearward relative to backrest 119A, and backrest adjustment stem 119C to adjust height of headrest 117A up and down relative to the top of backrest 119A. Headrest 117A is adjustable to the contour of user’s neck to provide comprehensive support (Step 210).

[0088] Device 100 generally includes adjustable back frame assembly 110 to adjust backrest 119A, adjustable headrest mounting assembly 111 to adjust headrest 117A, and adjustable respective armrest frames 130A-B for supporting cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal column of user/occupant during use (Step 216).

[0089] In one aspect, device 100 includes leg lock assemblies 140, such as leg lock assemblies 140A-D. Opposing detents 145A-B of respective leg lock assemblies 140A-B are received within and withdrawn from within opposing leg lock detents 156 in upper leg mounting member 154 to lock respective rear leg assemblies 180A-B in the unfolded generally vertical position. Leg lock catch bracket 158 on upper leg mounting member 154 of respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A- B is caught and secured by leg catch member 149 of leg catch assembly 148 on respective leg lock assemblies 140A-B to retain upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B and corresponding rear leg assemblies 180A-B in the folded generally horizontal position.

[0090] In one aspect, device 100 includes leg lock assemblies 140, such as leg lock assemblies 140A-D. Opposing detents 145A-B of respective leg lock assemblies 140C-C are received within and withdrawn from within opposing leg lock detents 166 in upper leg mounting member 164 to lock respective front leg assemblies 170A-B in the unfolded generally vertical position. Leg lock catch bracket 168 on upper leg mounting member 164 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A- B is caught and secured by leg catch member 149 of leg catch assembly 148 on respective leg lock assemblies 140C-D to retain upper front leg assemblies 160A-B and corresponding front leg assemblies 170A-B in the folded generally horizontal position.

[0091] In one aspect, device 100 can be collapsed to a folded position, such as being collapsed from an unfolded position to the folded position (Step 302). Optionally, commode 106 is removed before collapsing device 100 (Step 304). Optionally, respective front leg assemblies 207A-B and rear leg assemblies 180A-B are raised (Step 306) to decrease the leg heights. For example, upper front leg assemblies 160A-B with their respective lower front leg assemblies 170A-B are released from respective leg hinge assemblies 140C-D by depressing opposing release buttons 146A-B of leg lock assemblies 144 to withdraw opposing detents 145A-B out of opposing leg lockout points 166. Similarly, upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B with their respective lower rear leg assemblies 180A- B are released from respective leg hinge assemblies 140A-B by depressing opposing release buttons 146A-B of leg lock assemblies 144 to withdraw opposing detents 145A-B out of opposing leg lockout points 156. Upper front leg assemblies 160A-B with their respective lower front leg assemblies 170A-B and upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B with their respective lower rear leg assemblies 180A-B are rotated until catch members 158, 168 are secured by leg catch assembly 148 with leg catch member 149 on respective leg hinge assemblies 140A-D (Step 308). In one aspect, back frame assembly 110 is collapsed from an unfolded generally vertical position to a folded generally horizontal position by releasing pins 122 of respective lockout lever assemblies 120C-D from lockout tilt adjustment points 109A or 109B and releasing pins 122 in lockout folded position point 109C in respective mounting brackets 107A-B (Step 310). Handles 118A-B on back frame assembly 110 can be grabbed for lifting and toting device 100 (Step 312)

[0092] In one aspect, device 100 can be deployed to the unfolded position, such as being deployed from the folded position to the unfolded position (Step 402). For example, leg lock catch bracket 158 on each leg assembly 150A-B and 160A-B is released from leg catch member 149 of catch member 149 on respective leg hinge assemblies 144A-D to rotate legs from the folded position to the unfolded position (Step 406). Leg assemblies 150A-B and 160A-B and their corresponding lower leg assemblies 180A-B and 170A-B are unfolded generally to a vertical position to lock respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B in respective leg lock assemblies 144C-D of respective leg hinge assemblies 140C-D and to lock respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B in respective leg lock assemblies 144A-B of respective leg hinge assemblies 140A-B (Step 406). In one aspect, legs are rotated until opposing detents 145A-B of hinge assemblies 140A-B are received and locked within opposing leg lockout points 156 of respective upper rear leg assemblies 150A-B and opposing detents 145A-B of hinge assemblies 140C-D are received and locked within opposing leg lockout points 166 of respective upper front leg assemblies 160A-B (Step 406). In one aspect, back frame assembly 110 is deployed from the folded generally horizontal position to the unfolded generally vertical position by releasing pins 122 of respective lockout lever assemblies 120C-D from lockout folded position point 109C to lockout tilt adjustment points 109A or 109B in respective mounting brackets 107 A-B (Step 404). The height of lower front leg assemblies 170A-B and lower rear leg assemblies 180A-B optionally are raised (Step 408). Optionally, bedside commode 106A is removably attached to seat frame 102A with buckle hinges 106B (Step 410). Handles 118A-B on back frame assembly 110 can be grabbed for lifting and toting device 100 (Step 412).

[0093] Stabilization device 100 can advantageously and uniquely provide support along, or substantially along, a user’s entire spine while the user is in a seated or reclined position. In one aspect, backrest 119A and headrest 117A are made of a durable, plastic that is resistant to biofilm formation. Ad di ti o n al l y , the hinge points of device 100 may allow for varying the angle of the back frame assembly 110 and headrest mounting assembly 111 according to a user’s preferred seated position. Additionally, backrest 119A, headrest 117A, and armrests 132A-B contain a washable, waterproof vinyl covering a closed-cell foam, which is resistant to biofilm formation. The a s s e m b l i e s of d evi c e 100 are comprised of extruded aluminum, allowing it to be both lightweight and durable.

[0094] According to one aspect, a “three-in-one” device 100 is provided. D evice 100 can function as a toilet, commode, and shower chair. Device 100 can support a user that weighs up to 300 pounds. Moreover, device 100 advantageously is foldable for ease of storage and transport. An optional carry bag for device 100 is available.

[0095] Device 100 has a number of advantages, including that device 100 is configurable such that there is no need to remove and replace multiple pieces when disassembling and assembling. For example, device 100 is arranged such that only footrest assemblies 190A-B and beside commode 116A need to be removed to collapse or fold device 100.

[0096] Device 100 can move from an unfolded to folded position with ease. Device 100 can be used to push an individual while seated by grabbing handles 118A-B on back frame assembly 110. [0097] In one aspect, device 100 generally includes one or more restraints, such as a chest restraint 117C and a lap belt 117D for restraining and securing a user seated in device 100. Chest restraint 117C and lap belt 117D may include buckles for buckling and unbuckling belts 117C, 117D. A retractor may be configured for retracting slack in belts 117C, 117D. Adjusters may be configured in belts 117C, 117D for adjusting their length. Belts 117C, 117D may include anchor points attached to back frame assembly 110.

[0098] Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to one or more particular embodiments, it will be understood that other embodiments of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A stabilization device for supporting cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal column of user, comprising: a seat frame assembly having a pair of front and rear leg mounts; a back frame assembly hingedly attached to the seat frame assembly for adjusting a tilt angle of the back frame assembly relative to the seat frame assembly; a wheel hinge assembly attached at the pair of front and rear leg mounts; and a leg assembly rotatably attached to the wheel hinge assembly, wherein each leg assembly has a folded position generally parallel with the seat frame assembly.

2. The stabilization device of claim 1, further comprising: a hinge assembly connected between the seat frame assembly and the back frame assembly, wherein the hinge assembly comprises at least a pair of back frame assembly tilt adjustments.

3. The stabilization device of claim 1, further comprising: an armrest frame assembly hingedly attached to opposing sides of the back frame assembly.

4. The stabilization device of claim 3, further comprising: a hinge assembly connected between the armrest frame assembly and side of the back frame assembly, wherein the hinge assembly comprises at least a pair of armrest frame assembly tilt adjustments.

5. The stabilization device of claim 1, further comprising: a leg lockout assembly comprising opposing detents, wherein opposing detents are received within opposing lockout points in the leg assembly for locking leg assembly in an unfolded position generally perpendicular to the seat frame assembly.

6. The stabilization device of claim 1, further comprising: a backrest attached to the backrest frame assembly and a headrest attached to the backrest by a headrest mounting frame assembly, wherein the headrest mounting frame assembly comprises a tilt and elevation adjustment assembly.

7. A 3-in-l stabilization device, comprising: a seat frame assembly having a pair of front and rear leg mounts; a back frame assembly hingedly attached to the seat frame assembly; leg assemblies rotatably attached to the back frame assembly; a first seat portion and second seat portion removably disposed within the first seat portion; and a bedside commode removably attached to an underside of the seat frame assembly, wherein optionally the second seat portion and bedside commode are removed for toileting, optionally the second seat portion is removed and the bedside commode is attached for use of device as a bedside commode, and optionally bedside commode is removed for showering while seated on the device.

8. The 3-inl stabilization device of claim 7, further comprising: a folded position wherein the back frame assembly is generally parallel to the seat frame assembly and tbe leg assemblies are generally parallel to the seat frame assembly.

9. The 3-inl stabilization device of claim 7, further comprising: an unfolded position wherein the back frame assembly is generally perpendicular to the seat frame assembly and the leg assemblies are generally perpendicular to the seat frame assembly.

10. The 3-inl stabilization device of claim 7, further comprising: a footrest assemblies removably attached proximate a front leg hinge assembly.

11. The 3-inl stabilization device of claim 7, further comprising: a backrest attached to the back frame assembly and a headrest attached by a headrest frame mounting assembly to the backrest for adjusting a tilt and an elevation of the headrest relative to the backrest for aligning with a user’s spine.

12. The 3-inl stabilization device of claim 7, further comprising: a hinge assembly connected between the seat frame assembly and the back frame assembly, wherein the hinge assembly comprises at least a pair of back frame assembly tilt adjustments.

13. A method for a stabilization device, comprising: providing a seat frame assembly having a pair of front and rear leg mounts, a back frame assembly hingedly attached to the seat frame assembly, a headrest attached to a backrest, and leg assemblies rotatably attached to the back frame assembly; tilting the back frame assembly relative to the seat frame assembly to support a contour of a user’s cervical column; and tilting the headrest relative to the backrest to support the contour of the user’s spinal column.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: folding leg assemblies parallel to seat frame assembly for collapsing stabilization device.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: folding back frame assembly parallel to seat frame assembly for collapsing stabilization device.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising: removing a portion of a seat attached to the seat frame assembly and placing over a toilet for toileting and showering to provide access for pericare.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising: attaching a bedside commode underneath the seat frame assembly and removing a portion of a seat attached to the seat frame assembly for toileting seated in the device with the bedside commode.

18. The method of claim 13, further comprising: optionally removing a portion of a seat attached to the seat frame assembly and a bedside commode for showering seated in the device.

19. The method of claim 13, further comprising: locking leg assemblies in a generally vertical position with a leg hinge assembly attached to the seat frame assembly.

20. The method of claim 13, further comprising: rotating footrests outward and armrests upward for seating a user on the device.