Walker assembly

An apparatus includes a stationary walker assembly configured for use by a person. The stationary walker assembly includes a stationary base assembly. A first track is configured to be connectable to the stationary base assembly. A second track is configured to be connected to the stationary base assembly. The first track and the second track are spaced apart from each other once the first track and the second track are connected to the stationary base assembly. A yoke assembly is configured to be coupled to the first track and the second track. The yoke assembly is also configured to receive and support the person. This is done in such a way that the yoke assembly, in use, facilitates support of the person relative to the stationary base assembly.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document relates to the technical field of (and is not limited to) a walker assembly configured to receive and support a person in such a way that the walker assembly, in use, facilitates support of the person while the person walks (and method therefor).

BACKGROUND

A mobile baby walker is a device that can be used by infants who cannot walk on their own to move from one place to another along the ground or floor. Known mobile baby walkers have a base sitting on top of wheels and a suspended fabric seat with two leg holes.

Other types of mobile walkers include a walking frame configured for use by disabled or elderly people who need additional support to maintain balance or stability while the person walks along the ground or the floor. The mobile walker is mounted on wheels.

SUMMARY

It will be appreciated that there exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) at least one problem associated with the existing walkers (also called the existing technology). After much study of the known systems and methods with experimentation, an understanding of the problem and its solution has been identified and is articulated as follows:

The walker or the baby walker have also led to many preventable injuries. These include injuries from falling down stairs while moving around in the baby walker, often with injuries that are worse than typical for falling down the stairs. Parents are discouraged from using baby walkers.

By way of example, a walker is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163 (titled INFANT EXERCISER AND ACTIVITY CENTER, published 12 Apr. 1994, in which the inventors are Daniel R. Fermaglich, et al.).

Referring to FIG. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163, a user (a child) is required to move a tray when he/she walks with support from the walker. This may be awkward or cumbersome for the user by imposing a level of difficulty for the user as the user attempts to walk.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to permit the user to not have to move anything other than a yoke assembly (which is configured to support the person) when they walk with assistance provided by the walker.

Referring to FIG. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163, a user is required to sit (in a seated position), and to shuffle his/her legs in order to walk while sitting in the walker.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to permit the user to stand upright while the user walks with support from the walker, so that the user may learn to walk (in the standing orientation).

Referring to FIG. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163, the weight of the user is received (at least in part) by a tray. The tray is configured to be slide rotatable relative to stationary columns that extend from a base unit. The peripheral outer edge of the tray may have a relatively higher slide resistance when the tray is rotated by the user. The user may be required to rotate the tray when the user desires to walk (by siting and shuffling their feet). Therefore, it may be relatively difficult for the user to rotate and/or to turn relative to the tray when the user attempts to walk. Moreover, it may be more expensive to add devices for reducing slide resistance for the tray, which may increase the cost of manufacturing the walker.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to permit the user to employ enough energy to (A) simply move only a yoke assembly (in which the yoke assembly is configured to support the weight of the standing user), and (B) preferably nothing else other than the weight of the user. A technical advantage of this arrangement is the relative ease for the user to move the yoke assembly that is relatively light weight (without having to move other unnecessary weight). This arrangement makes it relatively easier for the user to walk while standing.

Referring to FIG. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163, the entire outer peripheral of a yoke assembly is slide rotatable relative to, and engageable with, a tray. The peripheral outer edge of the yoke assembly has relatively higher slide resistance when the yoke assembly is rotated by the user (relative to the tray). Therefore, it may be relatively difficult for the user to rotate and/or turn in the yoke assembly. Moreover, it may be more expensive to add devices for reducing resistance, which may increase the cost of manufacturing the walker.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to permit the contact surfaces (between the side edges of the handrails and the outer peripheral edges of a yoke assembly) to be relatively smaller. A technical advantage of this arrangement is reduced sliding resistance between the yoke assembly and a set of opposed handrails (as a result of minimizing the slide contact surfaces between the yoke assembly and the handrails). This arrangement may make it relatively easier for the user to rotate the yoke relative to a base assembly.

Referring to FIG. 13 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,163, for the case where a user is facing along a radial direction (toward or away from a central portion of a tray), the user may become stuck (not mobile), and unable to move in a circular fashion (path). The tray may become a barrier to permitting the child to walk while the child is supported by the walker.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to permit the user to be more motivated to move along the open space of the circular track (the continuous track) making the child less likely to be become stuck, immobile or unable to walk with support from the walker.

By way of example, a walker is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,682 (titled INFANT EXERCISER AND ACTIVITY CENTER, published 18 Jul. 1995, in which the inventors are Daniel R. Fermaglich, et al.).

Referring to FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,682, wheels are mounted to the bottom section of the columns, and the wheels permit the columns to be movable over a surface. The wheels and the movable columns are more likely to fail after prolonged use.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker having columns fixedly connected to a stationary base (this is done in such a way that the columns are stationary relative to the stationary base, and therefore the columns are not movable). A technical advantage of this arrangement is a prolonged working life for the walker as a result of the columns having relatively longer product life when compared to the wheels mounted to the columns (as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,682). In addition, clean up may be relatively easier since there are no wheels attached to the bottom section of the column.

Referring to FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,682, the rotatable center column is utilized for supporting a central rotatable shaft, which is more likely to fail after prolonged use. Movable parts tend to fail relatively quicker compared to stationary parts or components.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to include a center column that is affixed to (and extends from) a stationary base. A technical advantage of this arrangement is a prolonged working life of the walker since the stationary central column is more likely not to fail. Stationary parts tend to not fail compared to movable parts or components. Preferably, there is a single movable part that the child is required to move while walking in the walker (which is the yoke assembly configured to receive and support the child, with the remaining parts remaining, preferably, relatively stationary).

Referring to FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,433,682, the tray (of the walker) is configured to move along with a user. Therefore, the user is required to push or pull (move) more weight when user is in motion, which adds difficulty for the user that is learning to walk. In addition, the user is required to move the column. This arrangement makes the situation more difficult and challenging for the user learning to walk or to be mobile in the walker.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to reduce the burden on a moving user. A technical advantage of this arrangement is that by reducing the weight that the user is required to move, the walker makes things relatively easier for the user to learn to walk. Preferably, the burden is lowered for the user by providing a single movable lighter-weight part, which is the yoke assembly configured to support the user (while the remaining parts remain relatively stationary). Therefore, less weight for user to push when user is in motion make things easier for the user to learn to walk (with support provided by the walker).

By way of example, a walker is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,522,782 (titled APPARATUS FOR SUPPORTING A SMALL CHILD ADAPTED TO ALLOW LINEAR AND ROTATIONAL MOVEMENT, published 4 Jun. 1996, in which the inventors are Dragan Kurtin, et al).

Referring to FIG. 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,522,782, the user walks in a direction that is not a continuous loop or circuit. Moreover, the user is required to learn to turn around and walk back and forth along a linear (straight) path, which is not convenient or easy for the user (such as a child) to maneuver. Disadvantageously, the user is required to learn to turn around (in the walker) in order to continue to walk back and forth along the linear path, once the user reaches the end point of travel along the linear (straight) path.

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to reduce the burden for the user by permitting the user to be relatively freer to walk along a single continuous direction (a continuous loop or continuous circuit). A technical advantage of this arrangement is that the user is not required to learn to turn around (while walking) in order to continue walking along the path associated with the walker (since the user never reaches an end point because there is no end point of travel for a continuous loop). An advantage of the circular track (versus the linear track) is that the user, such as a toddler or child, learns to walk more easily. Toddlers don't know how to turn around, and so the linear track provides a disadvantage for the toddler learning to walk. With the circular (curved) track, the toddler is not hampered by the dead end of a linear track (the toddler does not know how to turn around at the dead end of a linear track). Advantageously, with the circular track, the toddler may continue walking unimpeded.

Referring to FIG. 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,522,782, a yoke assembly (for supporting the user) has long sliding portions configured to engage opposed handrails. It may be very easy for the yoke assembly to become jammed with the handrails (thus preventing user from moving or walking).

What may be required (to mitigate the above drawback) is a walker configured to reduce the burden on the child by providing a curved yoke assembly, which may allow relatively easier movement for the child, which may reduce the possibility of the yoke assembly becoming jammed up, inadvertently preventing the user from moving).

It will be appreciated that there exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) at least one problem associated with the existing walkers (also called the existing technology). After much study of the known systems and methods with experimentation, an understanding of the problem and its solution has been identified and is articulated as follows:

The walker or the baby walker have also led to many preventable injuries. These include injuries from falling down stairs while moving around in the baby walker, often with injuries that are worse than typical for falling down the stairs. Parents are discouraged from using baby walkers.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a major aspect) an apparatus, which includes a stationary walker assembly configured for use by a person. The stationary walker assembly includes a stationary base assembly configured to be positioned (either directly or indirectly) on a working surface (this is done in such a way that the stationary base assembly is not movable relative to the working surface once the stationary base assembly is positioned on the working surface). A first track is configured to be connectable to (either directly or indirectly), and to be spaced apart from, the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the first track is positioned above the stationary base assembly once the first track is connected to the stationary base assembly). A second track is configured to be connected to (either directly or indirectly), and spaced apart from, the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the second track is positioned above the stationary base assembly once the second track is connected to the stationary base assembly). The first track and the second track are spaced apart from each other once the first track and the second track are connected to the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the first track and the second track, in combination, form a walking path extending between the first track and the second track). A yoke assembly is configured to couple (either directly or indirectly) to the first track and the second track. The yoke assembly is also configured to receive (either directly or indirectly) and support (either directly or indirectly) the person. This is done in such a way that the yoke assembly, in use, facilitates support of the person relative to the stationary base assembly while the person, in use, walks relative to the stationary base assembly.

To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a major aspect) a method for using a stationary walker assembly. The method includes: (A) positioning a stationary base assembly on a working surface (this is done in such a way that the stationary base assembly is not movable relative to the working surface once the stationary base assembly is positioned on the working surface), (B) connecting a first track to, and spacing the first track apart from, the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the first track is positioned above the stationary base assembly once the first track is connected to the stationary base assembly), (C) connecting a second track to, and spacing the second track apart from, the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the second track is positioned above the stationary base assembly once the second track is connected to the stationary base assembly), (D) spacing the first track and the second track apart from each other once the first track and the second track are connected to the stationary base assembly (this is done in such a way that the first track and the second track, in combination, form a walking path extending between the first track and the second track), (E) coupling a yoke assembly to the first track and the second track, and (F) receiving and supporting the person in the yoke assembly (this is done in such a way that the yoke assembly, in use, facilitates support of the person relative to the stationary base assembly while the person, in use, walks relative to the stationary base assembly).

A technical effect of the above apparatus and method is that the stationary walker assembly, in use, permits the person to walk along the stationary base assembly, and whereby the person is not permitted to walk along the floor or the ground (since the stationary base assembly is placed on the ground or the floor). In this manner, the person is less likely to be exposed to the dangers associated with the known (existing) mobile walkers that cause injuries when the mobile walker permits the person to fall down the stairs while the person (baby) moves around in the mobile walker. As a result, for instance, with the above arrangement, parents would be encouraged to use the stationary walker assembly.

Other aspects are identified in the claims. Other aspects and features of the non limiting embodiments may now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the non limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings. This Summary is provided to introduce concepts in 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 disclosed subject matter, and is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the disclosed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The figures and the description that follow more particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, but well-understood, elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The scope of may be defined by the claims (in which the claims may be amended during patent examination after filing of this application). For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a”. The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. It should be understood that the invention is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims, and that the invention is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described.

FIG. 1depicts a front perspective view of an embodiment of a stationary walker assembly101configured for use by a person900. Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 1, and in accordance with a general aspect, an apparatus includes (and is not limited to) the stationary walker assembly101configured to be used (either directly or indirectly) by a person900. The person900is preferably a child or toddler, etc. The person900may include a person of any age (child, teenager, adult, senior citizen, a person recovering from an injury, etc.).

The stationary walker assembly101includes (and is not limited to) a synergistic combination of a stationary base assembly102, a first track104, a second track106, and a yoke assembly110.

The stationary base assembly102is configured to be positioned (either directly or indirectly) on a working surface901. This is done in such a way that the stationary base assembly102is not movable relative to the working surface901once the stationary base assembly102is positioned (either directly or indirectly) on the working surface901. The stationary base assembly102forms (provides) a walking surface105(a planar surface or flat surface). A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the stationary walker assembly101, in use, permits the person900to walk along a stable surface so that the person900may avoid unwanted injury, and whereby safety of the person900is improved.

The first track104is configured to be connectable (either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102. The first track104is also configured to be spaced apart from the stationary base assembly102once the first track104is connected (affixed, either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102. This is done in such a way that the first track104is positioned (either directly or indirectly) above the stationary base assembly102once the first track104is connected (either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102.

The second track106is configured to be connected (either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102. The second track106is also configured to be spaced apart from the stationary base assembly102once the second track106is connected (affixed, either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102. This is done in such a way that the second track106is positioned (either directly or indirectly) above the stationary base assembly102once the second track106is connected (either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102.

The first track104and the second track106are spaced apart from each other once the first track104and the second track106are connected (either directly or indirectly) to the stationary base assembly102. This is done in such a way that the first track104and the second track106, in combination, form a walking path108extending (either directly or indirectly) between the first track104and the second track106.

The yoke assembly110is configured to couple (either directly or indirectly) to the first track104and the second track106. The yoke assembly110is also configured to receive (either directly or indirectly) and support (at least in part, either directly or indirectly) the person900. This is done in such a way that the yoke assembly110, in use, facilitates support (either directly or indirectly) of the person900relative to the stationary base assembly102while the person900, in use, walks on (along) the stationary base assembly102.

A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the stationary walker assembly101, in use, permits the person900to walk along the stationary base assembly102, and whereby the person900is not permitted to walk along the floor or the ground (since the stationary base assembly102is placed on the ground or the floor). In this manner, the person900is less likely to be exposed to the dangers associated with the known (existing) mobile walkers that cause injuries when the mobile walker permits the person to fall down the stairs while the person (baby) moves around in the mobile walker. As a result, for instance, with the above arrangement, parents would be encouraged to use the stationary walker assembly101.

In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus is adapted such that the yoke assembly110is also configured to be located between the first track104and the second track106. The yoke assembly110is also configured to slidably engage with the first track104and the second track106. This is done in such a way that the yoke assembly110is slidable relative to the first track104and the second track106once the yoke assembly110is slidably engaged with the first track104and the second track106. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the yoke assembly110confines the movement of the person900along a predetermined walking path that is known to be safe for the person900while the person900uses the stationary walker assembly101.

In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus is adapted such that the first track104, the second track106and the yoke assembly110, in combination, are configured to support the person900once the yoke assembly110is slidably engaged with the first track104and the second track106, and once the yoke assembly110receives the person900. This is done in such a way that the yoke assembly110is movable along the walking path108in response to the person900walking along the walking path108. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the combination of the first track104, the second track106and the yoke assembly110, in use, support the person900in a position located above the stationary base assembly102and within the physical confines of the stationary base assembly102.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the first track104is configured to provide (form) a first handrail configured to be touched by the hand (hands) of the person900(once the person900is received in, and is supported by, the yoke assembly110). The second track106is configured to provide (form) a second handrail configured to be touched by the hand (hands) of the person900(once the person900is received in, and is supported by, the yoke assembly110). A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the combination of the first handrail and the second hand rail improves ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the stationary walker assembly101further includes at least one spaced-apart column assembly116or spaced-apart column assemblies116(hereafter referred to as the column assembly116for ease of description). The column assemblies116are configured to extend between the first track104and the stationary base assembly102. The column assemblies116are configured to connect the first track104to the stationary base assembly102. The column assemblies116are configured to extend vertically once the column assemblies116, in use, connect the first track104to the stationary base assembly102. Preferably, at least one of the column assemblies116(or at least two or more column assemblies116) extends between the first track104and the stationary base assembly102. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the column assemblies116improves ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900.

The column assemblies116are also configured to extend between the second track106and the stationary base assembly102. The column assemblies116are configured to connect the second track106to the stationary base assembly102. The column assemblies116are configured to extend vertically once the column assemblies116, in use, connect the second track106to the stationary base assembly102. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the column assemblies116, in use, improve ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900.

Preferably, at least one of the column assemblies116(or at least two or more column assemblies116) extends between the second track106and the stationary base assembly102.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the yoke assembly110is configured to surround the waist area of the person900. The yoke assembly110is configured to be coupled to a receiver assembly118(also called a holder or a suspended fabric seat). The receiver assembly118is configured to receive and to support the person900(relative to the stationary base assembly102) in such a way that the feet of the person900, in use, touches the walking surface105of the stationary base assembly102. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the receiver assembly118improves ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900and/or avoids unwanted injury to the person900.

In accordance with an option, the receiver assembly118is configured to be rotatable relative to the yoke assembly110. In accordance with another option, the receiver assembly118is configured to be non rotatable relative to the yoke assembly110. The yoke assembly110is also configured to permit the hands of the person900to touch (contact) the first track104and the second track106(once the person900is received and is supported by the yoke assembly110).

The yoke assembly110is also configured to permit the feet of the person900to touch the stationary base assembly102while the yoke assembly110prevents the person900from falling to the stationary base assembly102(once the person900is received and is supported by the yoke assembly110). A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the yoke assembly110improves ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900and/or avoids unwanted injury to the person900.

Preferably, the stationary base assembly102provides the walking surface105, in which the person900may touch the walking surface105with their feet (once the person900is received in the yoke assembly110). Preferably, the stationary base assembly102includes a central base section. The stationary base assembly102defines an outer peripheral edge103that is spaced apart from the central base section of the stationary base assembly102. The stationary base assembly102defines (includes) an outer peripheral edge103that is spaced apart from the central base section of the stationary base assembly102. The first track104is positioned above the central base section of the stationary base assembly102. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the first track104improves the usage of the stationary walker assembly101by the person900relative to the stationary base assembly102.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the first track104and the second track106each form a curved shape (circular shape). Preferably, the first track104is positioned concentrically relative to the second track106. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the stationary walker assembly101provides a circular walking path for the person900walk along, whereby the person900may view the surroundings of the room for improved enjoyment.

Preferably, the assemblies or components of the stationary walker assembly101are made of plastic (a light weight plastic material), wood, etc., and any equivalent thereof. The assemblies or components of the stationary walker assembly101may be held together (connected together) by attachment mechanisms (known and not depicted) or may be friction fitted relative to each other, etc. The assemblies or components of the stationary walker assembly101may be manufactured using an injection molding system.

Preferably, the stationary walker assembly101is configured to include columns (vertically extending columns) that are fixedly connected to the stationary base assembly102. This is done in such a way that the columns are stationary relative to the stationary base assembly102; therefore, the columns are not movable. A technical advantage of this arrangement is a prolonged working life for the stationary walker assembly101as a result of the columns having relatively longer product life. In addition, clean up (of the stationary walker assembly101) may be relatively easier since there are no wheels attached to the bottom section of the columns. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to include a central column116that is affixed to the stationary base assembly102. A technical advantage of this arrangement is a prolonged working life for the stationary walker assembly101since the central column116is more likely to have a longer product life. Stationary parts tend to not fail compared to movable parts or components. Preferably, there is a single movable part, which is the yoke assembly110configured to receive and support the child, and the remaining parts are (preferably) relatively stationary. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to reduce the burden on a moving child. A technical advantage of this arrangement is that by reducing the weight that the child is required to move, the stationary walker assembly101makes it relatively easier for the child to learn to walk. Preferably, the burden is lowered for the child by providing a single movable lighter-weight part, which is the yoke assembly110(configured to support the child), while the remaining parts remain relatively stationary. Therefore, less weight for child to push (when the child is in motion) makes things easier for the child to learn to walk.

Preferably, the stationary walker assembly101is configured to reduce the burden on the child by permitting the child to be relatively freer to walk along a single continuous direction (a continuous loop or continuous circuit). A technical advantage of this arrangement is that the child is not required to learn to turn around in order to continue walking along the path associated with the walker because the child never reaches an end point (there is no end point of travel for a continuous loop). An advantage of the circular track (versus the linear track) is that the toddler (child) learns to walk more easier. Toddlers don't know how to turn around, and so the linear track provides a disadvantage for the toddler learning to walk. With the circular track, the toddler is not hampered by the dead end of a linear track (the toddler does not know how to turn around at the dead end of a linear track). Advantageously, with the circular track, the toddler may continue walking unimpeded. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to reduce the burden on the child by providing a curved yoke assembly, which may allow relatively easier movement for the child, and reduce the possibility of the yoke assembly becoming jammed up (and inadvertently preventing the child from moving and/or walking).

FIG. 2depicts a top view of an embodiment of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1. Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 2, the stationary walker assembly101further includes an activity center114. The activity center114is configured to extend upwardly from a central base section of the stationary base assembly102. The activity center114is configured to be integrated with the first track104. Preferably, the first track104is formed in or included with the activity center114. The activity center114is configured to receive, in use, items (baby bottle, toy, etc.). A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the activity center114provides additional enjoyment of the stationary walker assembly101by the person900.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the yoke assembly110is configured to permit movement of the person900in such a way that the person900may rotate along the yoke rotation axis112(depicted inFIG. 8) between a first position in which the person900faces the activity center114, and a second position in which the person900faces away from the activity center114. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the yoke assembly110provides additional and/or flexible enjoyment of the stationary walker assembly101by the person900.

The receiver assembly118is configured to form leg openings120. The leg openings120are configured to receive, at least in part, the legs of the person900. Preferably, the first track104defines (provides) a first peripheral groove122. The second track106defines (provides) a second peripheral groove123.

Preferably, the stationary walker assembly101is configured to permit the child (the person900) to not have to move anything other than the yoke assembly110when they walk in the walker. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to permit the child (the person900) to stand while walking, so that the child (the person900) may learn to walk in a relatively easier manner. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to permit the child (the person900) to employ just enough energy to simply move only the yoke assembly110(and preferably nothing else). A technical advantage of this arrangement is the relative ease for the child (the person900) to move the yoke assembly110that is relatively light weight (without having to move other unnecessary weight). The stationary walker assembly101is configured to permit the contact surfaces (between the side edges of the hand rails and the outer peripheral edges of the yoke assembly110) to be relatively smaller. A technical advantage of this arrangement is reduced sliding resistance between the yoke assembly110and the handrails as a result of minimizing the slide contact surfaces between the yoke assembly110and the handrails. This arrangement may make it relatively easier for the child to rotate the yoke relative to the stationary base assembly102. The stationary walker assembly101is configured to permit the child (the person900) to be less likely to get stuck since the child (the person900) is more likely to be motivated to move along the open space of the circular track (the continuous track).

FIG. 3depicts a cross-sectional view (in which the view is seen through the cross-sectional line A-A ofFIG. 1) of an embodiment of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1. Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 3, the first peripheral groove122and the second peripheral groove123face each other (once the first track104and the second track106are installed relative to the stationary base assembly102, via the column assemblies116). The outer peripheral edge of the yoke assembly110is configured to be received by, at least in part, or engaged, at least in part, with the first peripheral groove122and the second peripheral groove123. The outer peripheral edge of the yoke assembly110is configured to be slidable relative to the first peripheral groove122and the second peripheral groove123once the outer peripheral edge of the yoke assembly110is received by, at least in part, and engaged with, at least in part, the first peripheral groove122and the second peripheral groove123. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the outer peripheral edge increases the available space on the yoke assembly110for use by the person900.

FIG. 4depicts a cross-sectional view (in which the view is seen through the cross-sectional line A-A ofFIG. 1) of an embodiment of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1. Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 4, the outer peripheral edge of the yoke assembly110includes, at least in part, a friction-reduction element124(such as, nylon, etc., and any equivalent thereof). The friction-reduction element124is mounted to the first peripheral groove122. The friction-reduction element124is also mounted to the second peripheral groove123. The friction-reduction element124is configured to facilitate movement of the yoke assembly110relative to the first peripheral groove122(of the first track104) and to the second peripheral groove123(of the second track106) with relatively less friction. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the friction-reduction element124improves ease of use of the stationary walker assembly101for the person900.

FIG. 5depicts a cross-sectional view (in which the view is seen through the cross-sectional line A-A ofFIG. 1) of an embodiment of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1.FIG. 6depicts a cross-sectional view (in which the view is seen through the cross-sectional line A-A ofFIG. 1) of an embodiment of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1. Referring to the embodiments as depicted inFIG. 5andFIG. 6, the stationary walker assembly101is further adapted such that the column assemblies116are configured to provide a telescoping column128. The telescoping column128is configured to support and, selectively move, the first track104and the second track106between a retracted position (as depicted inFIG. 5) and an extended position (as depicted inFIG. 6). The telescoping column128is configured to selectively lengthen (as depicted inFIG. 6) to a relatively longer length, and is also configured to selectively shorten (as depicted inFIG. 5) to a relatively shorter length. This is done in such a way that the telescoping column128facilitates ergonomic fit of the first track104and the second track106relative to the height of the person900. A technical effect of the above arrangement is that the telescoping column128improves ergonomic fit of the stationary walker assembly101to the person900.

Preferably, each of the telescoping columns128includes a latch assembly126(a spring-loaded latch), which may be called a lock. The latch assembly126is configured to selectively latch (lock) the telescoping column128in such a way that the length of the telescoping column128is fixed (relative to the stationary base assembly102).

FIG. 7andFIG. 8depict a top view (FIG. 7) and a cross-sectional view (FIG. 8, in which the views are seen through the cross-sectional line C-C ofFIG. 7) of embodiments of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 7, the receiver assembly118is configured to be rotatably mounted to the yoke assembly110.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 8, the yoke assembly110includes a yoke rotation axis112extending toward the stationary base assembly102. The yoke assembly110is also configured to rotate about the yoke rotation axis112. The yoke assembly110is also configured to permit the person900to rotate along the yoke rotation axis112. Preferably, the yoke assembly110forms an interior channel. The yoke assembly110further includes a rotatable member130configured to be rotatably mounted to the inner channel formed by the yoke assembly110. The receiver assembly118is affixed to the rotatable member130, and in this manner, the yoke assembly110is configured to permit the person900to rotate along the yoke rotation axis112.

FIG. 9depicts a cross-sectional view (in which the view is seen through the cross-sectional line C-C ofFIG. 7) of embodiments of the stationary walker assembly101ofFIG. 1.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted inFIG. 9, preferably, the receiver assembly118includes a flexible fabric material, and any equivalent thereof.

It is understood that each claim in the claims section are open ended claims unless stated otherwise. Unless otherwise specified, relational terms used in these specifications should be construed to include certain tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality. By way of example, the term perpendicular is not necessarily limited to about 90.0 degrees, but also to any slight variation thereof that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality for the purposes described for the relevant member or element. Terms such as “about” and “substantially”, in the context of configuration, relate generally to disposition, location, or configuration that is either exact or sufficiently close to the location, disposition, or configuration of the relevant element to preserve operability of the element within the invention which does not materially modify the invention. Similarly, unless specifically made clear from its context, numerical values should be construed to include certain tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as having negligible importance as they do not materially change the operability of the invention. It will be appreciated that the description and/or drawings identify and describe embodiments of the apparatus (either explicitly or non-explicitly). The apparatus may include any suitable combination and/or permutation of the technical features as identified in the detailed description, as may be required and/or desired to suit a particular technical purpose and/or technical function. It will be appreciated that, where possible and suitable, any one or more of the technical features of the apparatus may be combined with any other one or more of the technical features of the apparatus (in any combination and/or permutation). It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that technical features of each embodiment may be deployed (where possible) in other embodiments even if not expressly stated as such above. It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that other options would be possible for the configuration of the components of the apparatus to adjust to manufacturing requirements and still remain within the scope as described in at least one or more of the claims. This written description provides embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables the person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The patentable scope may be defined by the claims. The written description and/or drawings may help to understand the scope of the claims. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood, for this document, that the phrase “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising.” The foregoing has outlined the non limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.