Easy Poo

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a mechanical lifting device designed to assist individuals in achieving a squatting position to alleviate constipation. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device with power-driven, portable, and safe lifting mechanism that adjusts the user's leg height to facilitate a natural bowel movement position.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Constipation is a common problem affecting about 16% of people worldwide, with a higher occurrence in individuals aged 60 to 100 years, who make up 33% of those affected.

It is also more frequent in females, possibly due to hormonal differences. Constipation can cause significant discomfort and pain if not properly managed. Current solutions, such as medications and simple toilet stools like the Squatty Potty, do not adequately meet the needs of everyone dealing with constipation.

The Squatty Potty, for instance, only raises the feet by six to nine inches, which is not enough to achieve the full squatting position needed for optimal bowel movements. Additionally, it requires users to lift their legs without assistance, which can be difficult for older adults or those with mobility issues.

Accordingly, there is a clear need for a better solution to these problems.

The present invention is intended to solve the problems associated with conventional devices and methods and provide a new innovative solution.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter's scope.

The present invention is a mechanical lifting device designed to elevate a user's legs to a desired height while they lean forward, creating an optimal angle for straightening the rectum and the anal opening thereby facilitating a bowel movement. The device of the present invention, in one embodiment, comprises a base with a plurality of wheels and one or more handlebars attached to the base. Two scissor lifts, each with a platform, are attached to the base and operated by a plurality of actuators.

A control system with one or more switches connects to the actuators, allowing users to adjust the height of the lifts safely and easily.

In one embodiment, the wheels include a ratchet stabilizing system to secure the device during use. In some embodiments, the handlebars feature at least one angled portion and include a hole with a pull pin for adjustments. The device can be constructed from water-resistant materials for easy cleaning and maintenance, and it may include non-slip grip tape on the platform for enhanced safety.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a top view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention as applied to a toilet.

DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure.

Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure, and are made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure.

The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing herefrom, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim limitation found herein and/or issuing herefrom that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term-differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.”

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims found herein and/or issuing herefrom. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subject matter disclosed under the header.

The present disclosure includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in the context of methods, systems, apparatuses, and devices for alleviating constipation through a mechanical lifting device, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to use only in this context.

The present invention provides a power-driven, portable, and safe lifting mechanism that adjusts the user's leg height to help them achieve a natural squatting position. This position is important for relaxing the puborectalis muscle, which otherwise pinches the rectum and restricts bowel movements. By allowing users to reach the correct posture, the present invention offers a more effective way to relieve constipation than current options. The device of the present invention is versatile and customizable, enabling users to adjust their leg height to suit their individual needs, thereby increasing the chances of relieving constipation and improving bowel movement frequency and efficiency. This innovative solution is especially helpful for those who find traditional methods challenging, or people who have developed a chronic problem where they either paradoxically squeeze the anal muscles or are unable to coordinate and relax the anal muscles to provide more effective and user-friendly way to manage constipation. The present invention is an especially helpful alternative to toileting methods for those who struggle with traditional approaches.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1-6, the present invention discloses a device 100 comprising a base 10, handlebars 20, wheels 50, a scissor lift assembly 40, and electrical mechanical linear actuators 30. Each component is engineered to function synergistically to elevate a user's legs, thereby facilitating an optimal squatting position to alleviate constipation.

Base 10

In some embodiments, the base 10 is constructed from robust, water-resistant materials to ensure structural stability and longevity in a bathroom environment. It is designed to enhance the stability of the present invention and can be equipped with strategically positioned apertures for bolted connections, facilitating the secure attachment of the scissor lift assembly 40 and handlebars 20.

In one embodiment, the handlebars 20 and wheels 50 are connected to the base 10 via pole sockets and bolts, respectively. Additionally, the base 10 may accommodate the scissor lift assembly 40, linear actuator 30, and AC to DC converter (with a control box) 60.

In some configurations, the base 10 may also feature a cutout 45 specifically designed to fit various toilet dimensions, as shown in FIG. 4, with the largest cutout measuring up to 11 inches in width to ensure compatibility with a broad range of toilet bases.

Handlebars 20

In a preferred embodiment, the handlebars 20 can be constructed from aluminum 6061 or other similar material, selected for its high strength-to-weight ratio. These handlebars 20 are securely affixed to the base 10 and provide users with stability and support during operation.

The handlebars 20 can be engineered to withstand stress and deflection within safe limits, ensuring user safety. The handlebars 20 can be attached to the base 10 and designed to be detachable via a safety pin mechanism, allowing the device to occupy minimal space during storage.

In some embodiments, the handlebars 20 may include a telescoping mechanism that is a design that allows the handlebars 20 to extend and retract, similar to the way a telescope operates. This mechanism may include multiple nested sections or tubes that slide within one another, allowing the structure to expand or contract in length.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the handlebars 20 may comprise a plurality of supporting rods 20a integrated with a telescoping mechanism, a connecting rod 20b featuring an angled section, and an end bar 20c affixed to this angled section. This configuration allows the overall handlebar structure to form an L-shape, with a 90-degree angle between the end bar 20c and the supporting rods 20a.

In alternative embodiments, the handlebar 20 may incorporate at least one pull pin 25 mechanism. This pull pin 25 can be designed to facilitate the disengagement of a specific section of the handlebar 20 from the main section of the handlebar 20. For instance, the handlebar 20 may include a supporting rod 20a connected to a connecting rod 20b, which is further attached to an end bar 20c as explained above. The connecting rod 20b is inserted into the supporting rod 20a and features an alignment hole 26 that corresponds with a hole on the supporting rod 20a. The pull pin 25 can be used to secure the connection between the connecting rod 20b and the supporting rod 20a by inserting it through the aligned holes 26, thereby locking the components in place.

Wheels 50

In some embodiments, the device 10 can be equipped with swivel wheels 50 featuring ratchet stabilizers 55, mounted at each corner of the base 10 to facilitate ease of transportation and positioning. These wheels 50 may allow for 360-degree movement, enhancing portability, and incorporate a ratcheting mechanism that can be configured to adjust the height of a stabilizing rubber knob that may be included. This mechanism lifts the wheels 50 on and off the ground, ensuring the device 100 remains stationary during use, thereby increasing stability and safety. This design is chosen over alternative wheel concepts due to its effective integration of portability and stability functions.

Scissor Lift Assembly 40

In one embodiment, the scissor lift assembly 40 may comprise two parallel scissor mechanisms (or any suitable number of scissors that may be constructed by links), each equipped with a platform engineered to securely support the user's feet. These mechanisms are actuated by electrical mechanical linear actuators 30, which convert horizontal linear motion into vertical movement at the base of the scissor lift 40, effectively raising and lowering the platforms 41.

In one embodiment, each scissor lift 40 may comprise four scissor bars (links) 42 arranged in an X-shape, connected at the top (to the platform 41) and bottom (to the base 10) by a pin-in-slot configuration that allows movement within defined boundaries.

The scissor lift assembly 40 can be constructed from high-strength materials capable of supporting a load of up to 250 pounds, with a factor of safety of 2.32, ensuring durability and reliability. Additionally, the scissor lift assembly 40 is designed to be collapsible, allowing the device 100 to occupy minimal space when not in use.

Linear Actuators (Electrical Mechanical) 30

The linear actuators 30 can be interfaced with a control board (box) 60, enabling synchronized operation of the scissor lifts 40 via a momentary wired rocker switch that can be included in the present invention.

In some embodiments, the control board (box) 60 may include one or more switches (remote) 61 and is designed to be waterproof and ergonomically friendly, requiring continuous user engagement to adjust the lift height, thus providing precise control.

Each linear actuator 30 may comprise an electric motor with gears, a threaded rod, and a shaft. The motor drives a set of gears that rotate the threaded rod, which in turn displaces the shaft to the desired length.

One end of the linear actuator 30 can be mounted to the base using a bracket and bolt provided by the manufacturer, while the other end is connected to the bottom of the scissor lift 40 with a pin attached to the shaft. These actuators 30 are engineered to efficiently transition the scissor lifts 40 from a fully collapsed position to the maximum height, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.

In one embodiment, the components of the present invention can be interconnected through a series of bolted connections, ensuring structural integrity and ease of assembly. It should be understood that any other fastening mechanism can be utilized in the present invention. The scissor lift assembly 40 is mounted on the base 10, with the linear actuators 30 connected to the scissor lift assembly 40 and positioned to drive the lift mechanism. The handlebars 20 can be affixed to the base 10, providing additional support.

In some embodiments, the device 10 may include non-slip grip tape on the platforms 41 to increase friction and prevent the user's feet from slipping. Additionally, the design allows for variations in actuator speed and power supply configurations, ensuring compatibility with standard household electrical outlets.

The present invention is designed to elevate the user's legs to a desired height, ensuring it has sufficient power to drive the load and support the weight of a person from the hips down, all while operating quietly. The device 100 of the present invention is engineered for stability, incorporating features that prevent tipping under load, provide stable base support, and include a leveling system. Safety is prioritized through secure connections, a non-slip surface, and design measures to avoid sharp edges and pinch points.

The device 100 is portable, equipped with wheels for easy movement, and designed to occupy minimal space with a collapsible structure. It is also maintainable, being easy to clean and constructed from corrosion- and rust-resistant materials. The control system allows the actuator 30 to operate smoothly, with precise start and stop commands.

To operate, the device 100 of the present invention requires connection to an electrical outlet located at least three feet from the toilet 70. The user places one foot on each platform 41 and sits on the toilet 70 as shown in FIG. 6.

By activating a switch 61, the user's legs are elevated to the desired height. Once the desired height is reached, the switch 61 is deactivated to maintain the position.

Handlebars 20 on the sides of the mechanism provide additional support, ensuring the user is correctly positioned and secure. After use, the switch 61 is activated again to lower the mechanism back to its lowest position.

The present invention thus provides a comprehensive solution for achieving the optimal squatting position to alleviate constipation, with each component meticulously engineered and integrated to ensure safety, stability, and ease of use.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a mechanical lifting device 100 for alleviating constipation, comprising:

• • A base 10 with wheels 50 and handlebars 20 for stability and portability.
  • Two scissor lifts 40 with platforms 41 positioned on top of the scissor lifts 40, the two scissor lifts 40 are powered by electrical mechanical linear actuators 30, the two scissor lifts 40 are attached on the base 10.
  • A control system 60 with a switch 61 for (space) adjusting the height of the lifts 40, the control system 60 is connected to the electrical mechanical linear actuators 30.
  • A ratchet (stabilizing system) 55 to secure the device during use.

In one embodiment, the lifting device 100 of the present invention can be configured to support a maximum load of 250 pounds.

In one embodiment, the overall weight of the device 100 does not exceed 80 pounds, and the width is less than 32 inches.

In one embodiment, the materials used for the device 100 are water-resistant to facilitate cleaning and maintenance.

Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.