DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[1] The present invention relates to a crutch for assisting the users in walking, and more specifically to a flexible and durable crutch tip.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[2] This invention takes priority from an earlier filed provisional patent application no. 202211046202 filed on August 12, 2022; which is incorporated herein as reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[3] Injuries are part of life, and from early childhood to old age we all have endured multiple injuries. There are different types of injuries people suffer from, among which, injuries related to partial loss of energy or full loss of energy in legs are prominent. Because of such injuries, people face difficulty in walking. In some cases, for example, in the case of bilateral disabilities of legs, a person is advised to use different helping mechanisms, such as wheelchairs or electric cars, and the like. While in other cases, for example, in unilateral disabilities of legs where a person is not able to use the energy of one leg, the usage of crutches is advised. Such crutches assist the person in walking.
[4] There are crutches available to help the patients with crutch tips forming an integral part. These crutch tips provide support and play a vital role while using a crutch. However, the present crutch tips are of less help to the user as no forward push is provided by them, because of which the user is necessitated to utilize maximum energy in walking.
[5] Further, among different types of currently available crutch tips, the crutch tips are not flexible and durable. Moreover, such crutch tips do not perform well on the rough floor, thereby adding to the discomfort of the user and decreasing their overall walking speed.
[6] Fig. 1 shows the prior art crutch 1000 having a crutch tip 1010 and a support member 1300. AA’ shows an axis parallel to the ground and passing through the center of mass of the crutch tip 1010 and BB’ shows an axis along the support member 1300 passing through the center of mass of the support member 1300. For comfortable walking using the crutch 1000, the user does not hold the support member 1300 perpendicular to the ground but at an angle ß less than 90. To maintain this angle ß the crutch tip 1010 is designed in a way that when the support member 1300 is secured to the crutch tip 1010, an angular offset ß is formed between BB’ and AA’. However, different users have different values of angle ß as per their comfort, needs and height. Also, the angle ß can vary depending on the kind of surface on which the crutch tip 1010 is used. Thus, usage of such crutches with constant angle ß can be energy consuming and uncomfortable for users. Also, holding the support member 1300 at an angle other than ß leads to improper surface contact between the crutch tip 1010 and the ground.
[7] Fig. 2 shows a user using a crutch having a prior art crutch tip. The dotted line in the figure shows the path traversed by the Center of Mass of the user while walking on the ground. As shown, path followed by the Center of Mass of the user varies vertically with every gait cycle as user moves forward. The user needs to do an extra amount of work to vertically lift the center of mass from its lowest point. This extra amount of work requires the usage of additional metabolic energy, and the user feels fatigue.
[8] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved, flexible, and durable crutch tip that can overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.
OBJECT
[9] It is an object of the presently disclosed subject matter to overcome limitations of the prior art and develop a flexible and durable crutch to aid a person while walking.
[10] According to another object of the presently disclosed subject matter, a novel crutch is disclosed, wherein the crutch comprises a vertical support member.
[11] It is yet another object of the present invention to mount a crutch tip at the bottom of the vertical support member.
[12] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide the crutch tip comprising a curved shaped toe and a curved shaped heel, wherein the curved shaped heel is configured to be behind the curved shaped toe viewed in a direction of walking W.
[13] It is yet another object of the present invention to form the curved shaped toe and the curved shaped heel of the crutch tip as separate elements joined together by one or more connecting means.
[14] It is yet another object of the present invention to integrally form the curved shaped toe and the curved shaped heel of the crutch tip as a single body.
[15] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide the curved shaped toe comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, configured to form a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces.
[16] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the first portion of the curved shaped toe is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground.
[17] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped toe is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion and continuing through the second portion to the third portion, i.e., the width of the front surface and the rear surface at the first portion is greater than the width of the front surface and the rear surface at the second portion and/or the third portion. The variation in width helps the crutch tip to have a greater surface area of contact with the ground and achieve greater stability, desired flexibility, and weight reduction.
[18] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the front surface of the curved shaped toe is curved in a direction against the direction of walking W.
[19] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein each of the plurality of side surfaces of the curved shaped toe is configured to have therewithin a core out portion. The core out portion for example, is of airfoil shape defined within the side surface.
[20] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the core out portion reduces the weight of the curved shaped toe and makes the crutch tip lightweight and flexible. Besides, the use of the crutch tip is made more comfortable along with an enhanced user experience.
[21] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped toe is manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight and increasing the flexibility and stiffness.
[22] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the third portion of the curved shaped toe comprises an adapter configured to receive the vertical support member. The adapter further comprises a mouth. A plurality of through holes in the adapter are configured to receive a plurality of securing elements to secure the vertical support member within the mouth.
[23] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the mouth is configured to receive the vertical support member of any suitable cross-section known to a person skilled in the art.
[24] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the mouth and the securing elements have tolerances for variations in the diameter of the vertical support member, thereby providing the user with multiple options to choose the vertical support member of varying diameters based on his/her needs and preferences.
[25] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a universal crutch tip, wherein the vertical support member does not require any angular offset with respect to the crutch tip.
[26] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the securing elements, for example, are screws, rivets and like, configured to hold the vertical support member rigidly in the mouth, thereby restricting the displacement and/or rotation of the vertical support member with respect to the crutch tip, and providing more stability to the user while walking.
[27] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped heel comprises a first portion and a second portion configured to form a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces.
[28] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the first portion of the curved shaped heel is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground. The curved shaped heel and the curved shaped toe of the crutch tip together provide stability and support to the user.
[29] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped heel is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion of the curved shaped heel to the second portion of the curved shaped heel, i.e., the width of the front surface and the rear surface of the curved shaped heel at the first portion, is greater than the width of the front surface and the rear surface of the curved shaped heel at the second portion. The variation in width helps the crutch tip to have a greater surface area of contact with the ground, and achieve greater stability, flexibility, and weight reduction.
[30] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the front surface of the curved shaped heel is curved in the direction of walking W.
[31] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein each of the plurality of side surfaces of the curved shaped heel is configured to have therewithin a core out portion. The core out portion for example, is of airfoil shape, defined within the side surface of the curved shaped heel.
[32] It is yet another object of the invention, wherein the core out portion reduces the weight of the curved shaped heel and makes the crutch tip lightweight and flexible. Besides, the use of the crutch tip is made more comfortable along with an enhanced user experience.
[33] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped heel is manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight of the curved shaped heel and increasing the flexibility and stiffness.
[34] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the crutch tip is made of anisotropic materials selected from a group consisting of rubber, wood, plastics, composites, etc.
[35] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the crutch tip flexes in any direction needed for comfortable use of the crutch on application of the load.
[36] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the crutch is in a typical position and a habitual position. The vertical support member is aligned along the axis YY perpendicular to the ground in the typical position and the crutch tip forms a full area of contact F with the ground. In the habitual position, the vertical support member is inclined at an angle ? with an axis XX’.
[37] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the flexing of the crutch tip is possible for all acute values of angles ?.
[38] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the angle ? can be varied according to the needs, height, and preferences of the user.
[39] It is yet another object of the present invention, to provide a crutch tip to enable the user to walk on an uneven surface.
[40] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the angle ? can be varied according to the ground surface and the crutch tip flexes to maintain the full surface area of contact F.
[41] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the flexing of the crutch tip provides stability, comfort, and relief to the user.
[42] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein a full gait cycle is described. At the time of walking when a first gait cycle starts, a force is applied by a user on the crutch. The force is transferred to the crutch tip through the vertical support member. Because of the choice of the use of anisotropic material and design, the toe and the heel absorb this force, thereby completing the first half of the first gait cycle. In the second half of the first gait cycle, the user lifts the crutch from the ground and the absorbed force is released by the crutch tip.
[43] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the curved shaped toe and the curved shaped heel of the crutch tip absorbs energy in the first half of a gait cycle and releases the same energy in the second half of the gait cycle to assist the user in walking.
[44] Another object of the present invention is to provide a crutch tip that can give forward push to a user and assist in walking.
[45] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the forward push corresponds to the absorbed energy released by the crutch tip.
[46] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide the crutch tip wherein less metabolic energy of the user is used in walking.
[47] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the absorbed energy in the first half of the gait cycle enables the user to take large footsteps.
[48] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the crutch tip absorbs any shock, impact, or any other type of vibrations effectively and prevents jerks in every gait cycle.
[49] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a stable crutch tip, wherein less variation in vertical displacement of center of mass of the user takes place and thus saves energy of the user.
[50] It is yet another object of the present invention wherein, the curved shaped toe and the curved shaped heel are configured to receive a grip. The grip is made of a material, for example, rubber, and provides efficient surface contact between the crutch and the ground surface while walking.
[51] It is yet another object of the present invention wherein the grip is provided in the event of walking on smooth surfaces and/or on the surfaces having less coefficient of friction.
[52] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein a lightweight and robust crutch tip is provided for a smooth walking experience of the user.
[53] It is yet another object of the present invention, wherein the crutch tip enables the user to walk and enhances his/her confidence.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[54] In the present invention, a crutch tip for assisting a user in walking comprising a curved shaped toe comprising a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the front surface and the rear surface. The crutch tip further comprising an adapter disposed on the top of the curved shaped toe, wherein the adapter configured to receive a vertical support member. Further, a curved shaped heel comprises a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the front surface and rear surface, wherein the rear surface of the heel is disposed on the rear surface of the toe such that the toe and the heel are curved in the opposite direction to each other.
[55] Further, the curved shaped toe comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, configured to form a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, wherein the curved shaped toe is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion and continuing through the second portion to the third portion. Furthermore, the first portion of the curved shaped toe is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground and the width of the front surface and the rear surface at the first portion is greater than the width of the front surface and the rear surface at the second portion and the third portion. The front surface of the curved shaped toe is curved in a direction against the direction of walking W. Furthermore, each of the plurality of side surfaces of the curved shaped toe is configured to have therewithin a core out portion and the core out portion is an airfoil shape defined within the side surface. The curved shaped toe is manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight and increasing the flexibility and stiffness. The I cross-section helps to absorb all the shocks and vibration created by the walking. The crutch tip comprises the adapter disposed above the third portion of the curved shaped toe, wherein the adapter comprises a mouth and a plurality of through holes in the adapter are configured to receive a plurality of securing elements to secure the vertical support member within the mouth, wherein the mouth is configured to receive the vertical support member of any suitable cross-section known to a person skilled in the art.
[56] Furthermore, the curved shaped heel comprises a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the front surface and rear surface. Further the curved shaped heel comprising a first portion and a second portion, wherein the curved shaped toe is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion and continuing to the second portion of the heel. The first portion of the curved shaped heel is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground and the width of the front surface and the rear surface of the curved shaped heel at the first portion, is greater than the width of the front surface and the rear surface of the curved shaped heel at the second portion. The front surface of the curved shaped heel is curved in the direction of walking W. Furthermore, each of the plurality of side surfaces of the curved shaped heel are configured to have therewithin a core out portion and the core out portion is an airfoil shape defined within the side surface. The curved shaped heel is manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight and increasing the flexibility and stiffness. The I cross-sections of the toe and heel help to absorb all the shocks and vibration created by the walking. Further, the crutch tip is made of anisotropic materials selected from a group consisting of rubber, wood, plastics, composites and alike.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWING
[57] In order to understand the invention and to see how it can be carried out in practice, non-limiting examples and embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[58] Fig. 1 illustrates the prior art crutch.
[59] Fig. 2 illustrates travel path of a Center of Mass of a user using a prior art crutch.
[60] Fig. 3 illustrates a crutch in accordance with the present invention.
[61] Fig. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[62] Fig. 4B illustrates another perspective view of the crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[63] Fig. 4C illustrates another perspective view of the crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[64] Fig. 5A illustrates a cross sectional view of the crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[65] Fig. 5B illustrates another cross-sectional view of the crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[66] Fig. 5C illustrates another cross-sectional view of the crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[67] Fig. 6A illustrates the crutch in a typical position in accordance with the present invention.
[68] Fig. 6B illustrates the crutch in a habitual position of user in accordance with the present invention.
[69] Fig. 6C illustrates the crutch in a habitual position of a first user in accordance with the present invention.
[70] Fig. 6D illustrates the crutch in another habitual position of a second user in accordance with the present invention.
[71] Fig. 7 illustrates an exemplary travel path of a Center of Mass of a user using a crutch tip in accordance with the present invention.
[72] Fig. 8 illustrates the crutch tip in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
10 - Crutch tip
12 - Curved shaped toe
14 - Curved shaped heel
102 - Front surface
104 - Rear surface
106 - Plurality of side surfaces
108 - First portion
110 - Second portion
112 - Third portion
114 - Plurality of through holes
116- Adapter
118 - Mouth
130 - Vertical support member
125 - Plurality of securing elements
131 - Top
132 - Bottom
166 - Core out portion
200 - Grip
202 - First portion
204 - Second portion
206 - Plurality of side surfaces
208 - Rear surface
212 - Front surface
266 - Core out portion

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[73] Reference will be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention. The same or similar elements and the elements having the same or similar functions are denoted by like reference numerals throughout the descriptions. The embodiments described herein with reference to drawings are explanatory, illustrative, and used to generally understand the present invention. The embodiments shall not be construed to limit the present invention.
[74] Aspects of the present invention are best understood by reference to the Figs. and description set forth herein. All the aspects described herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred aspects and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope herein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and the present invention herein includes all such modifications.
[75] A broad framework of the principles will be presented by describing various embodiments of this invention using exemplary aspects and represented in different drawing figures. For clarity and ease of description, each aspect includes only a few embodiments. Different embodiments from different aspects may be combined or practiced separately, to design a customized process depending upon application requirements. Many different combinations and sub-combinations of a few representative processes shown within the broad framework of this invention, that may be apparent to those skilled in the art but not explicitly shown or described, should not be construed as precluded.
[76] Fig. 3 illustrates a crutch 1 in accordance with the present invention. The crutch 1 comprises a vertical support member 130, having a top 131 and a bottom 132. The user holds/grips the vertical support member 130 at the top 131 and a crutch tip 10 is mounted at the bottom 132. The crutch tip 10 comprises the curved shaped toe 12 and curved shaped heel 14 attached to each other forming the crutch tip 10.
[77] Fig. 4A illustrates an exemplary crutch tip 10 in accordance with the present invention. The crutch tip 10 comprises the curved shaped toe 12 and curved shaped heel 14 attached to each other forming the crutch tip 10. The curved shaped toe 12 comprising the first portion 108, the second portion 110, and the third portion 112, configured to form the front surface 102, the rear surface 104, and the plurality of side surfaces 106, wherein the curved shaped toe 12 is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion 108 and continuing through the second portion 110 to the third portion 112. It is to be noted that the curved shaped toe 12 may typically have two side surfaces 106. The first portion 108 is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground. The curved shaped heel 14 is disposed on the rear surface 104 of the curved shaped toe 12 at certain distance. For example, as shown in Fig 4A the curved shaped heel 14 is attached to the second portion 110 of the rear surface 104.
[78] In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of side surfaces 106 of the curved shaped toe 12 may be configured to have therewithin a core out portion 166 (seen in Fig. 4A). The core out portion 166 for example, is of airfoil shape defined within the side surface 106 of the curved shaped toe 12. However, other shapes known to a person skilled in the art are also possible. The core out portion 166 reduces the weight of the curved shaped toe 12, thereby making the crutch tip 10 lightweight and more flexible. All this makes the use of crutch tip 10 more comfortable and provides an enhanced user experience.
[79] Fig. 4B illustrates the curved shaped heel 14 comprises the front surface 212, the rear surface 208, and the plurality of side surfaces 206 extending between the front surface 212 and rear surface 208, wherein the rear surface 208 of the curved shaped heel 14 and the rear surface 104 of curved shaped toe 12 is joined together by one or more connecting means such that the toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 are curved in the opposite direction to each other. The curved shaped heel comprises 14 comprises the first portion 202 and the second portion 204, wherein the curved shaped heel 14 is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion 202 of the curved shaped heel to the second portion 204 of the curved shaped heel 14. Further the first portion 202 of the curved shaped heel 14 is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground and the width of the front surface 212 and the rear surface 208 of the curved shaped heel 14 at the first portion 202, is greater than the width of the front surface 212 and the rear surface 206 of the curved shaped heel 14 at the second portion 204. The front surface of the curved shaped heel is curved in the direction of walking W. Furthermore, each of the plurality of side surfaces 206 of the curved shaped heel 14 is configured to have therewithin the core out portion 266 and the core out portion 266 is an airfoil shape defined within the side surface 206. The curved shaped toe 14 and is manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight and increasing the flexibility and stiffness. The I cross-section helps to absorb all the shocks and vibration created by the walking.
[80] Fig. 4C illustrate different perspective views of the crutch tip 10. The crutch tip 10 comprises the curved shaped toe 12, the adapter and the curved shaped heel 14. The adapter 116 is disposed above the third portion 112 of the curved shaped toe 12, wherein the adapter 116 configured to receive a vertical support member 130 of the crutch 1.
[81] In one embodiment of the present invention, the adapter 116 further comprises a mouth 118, wherein the mouth 118 is configured to receive the bottom 132 of the vertical support member 130. A plurality of through holes 114 are formed in the adapter 116 that are configured to receive a plurality of securing elements 125 (see Fig. 4C). The plurality of securing elements 125 secure the vertical support member 130 within the mouth 118.
[82] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mouth 118 of the adapter 116 is configured to receive the vertical support member 130 of any suitable cross-section, known to a person skilled in the art.
[83] In another embodiment of the present invention, the cross-section of the vertical support member 130 is circular. The adapter 116 along with the mouth 118 and the securing elements 125 makes it possible to attach vertical support member 130 of any suitable diameter to the crutch tip 10.
[84] In another embodiment of the present invention, the mouth 118 and the securing elements 125 have tolerances for variations in the diameter/area of the vertical support member 130. This provides the user with multiple options to choose the vertical support member 130 based on his/her needs and preferences.
[85] In one embodiment of the present invention, the securing elements 125 are screws, rivets and like. However, other securing elements 125 known to a person skilled in the art can also be used. The securing elements 125 hold the vertical support member 130 rigidly in the mouth 118 and restrict the displacement and/or rotation of the vertical support member 130 in the crutch tip 10. The vertical support member 130 now cannot move or rotate freely, thereby providing stability to the user while walking.
[86] In one embodiment of the present invention, an anti-rotation member (not shown) is inserted inside the bottom 132 of the vertical support member 130 to prevent rotation of the vertical support member 130 with respect to the crutch tip 10.
[87] In one embodiment of the present invention, the curved shaped toe 12 and the heel 14 are formed as separate elements and are joined together by one or more connecting means (not shown).
[88] In another embodiment of the present invention, the curved shaped toe 12 and the heel 14 are integrally formed as a single body (not shown).
[89] In one embodiment of the present invention, the curved shaped heel 14 of the crutch tip 10 has the first portion 202 and the second portion 204 configured to form the front surface 212 (see Fig. 4A, 4B), the rear surface 208 (see Fig. 4C), and the plurality of side surfaces 206. The first portion 202 of the curved shaped heel 14 is configured to form a surface area of contact H with the ground. The heel 14 and the toe 12 of the crutch tip 10 together provide stability and support to the user.
[90] In one embodiment of the present invention, the curved shaped heel 14 is a curved element with width tapering inwards from the first portion 202 to the second portion 204 i.e., the width of the front surface 212 and the rear surface 208 at the first portion 202, is greater than the width of the front surface 212 and the rear surface 208 at the second portion 204. This variation in width helps the crutch tip 10 to have a greater surface area of contact with the ground, thereby providing greater stability, and at the same time achieving desired flexibility and weight reduction. The curved shaped heel 14 is positioned behind the curved shaped toe 12 when viewed in a direction of walking W.
[91] In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of side surfaces 206 of the heel 14 may be configured to have therewithin a core out portion 266 (shown in Fig. 4A). The core out portion 266 for example, is of airfoil shape defined within the side surface 206. However, other shapes known to a person skilled in the art are also possible. The core out portion 266 reduces the weight of the curved shaped heel 14, and thereby making the crutch tip 10 lightweight and more flexible. Further, the use of the crutch tip 10 is made more comfortable along with an enhanced user experience.
[92] In embodiment of the present invention, the toe 12 of the crutch tip 10 is manufactured in an I cross-section. Fig. 5A shows the sectional view of the toe 12 and the heel 14 about the axis KK’ and LL’, as shown in Fig. 4C. Similarly, Fig. 5C shows the sectional view of the toe 12 about the axis MM’, as shown in Fig. 4C. The I cross-section results in a considerable reduction in weight of the curved shaped toe 12 and provides the desired flexibility and stiffness.
[93] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heel 14 of the crutch tip 10 is manufactured in an I cross-section. Fig. 5B shows the sectional view of the heel 14 about the axis NN’’, as shown in Fig, 4C. The I cross-section results in a considerable reduction in weight of the heel 14 and provides the desired flexibility and stiffness.
[94] In one embodiment of the present invention, the crutch tip 10 is made of anisotropic materials selected from a group comprising of rubber, wood, plastics, composite, etc. The property of the anisotropic material allows the crutch tip 10 to assume different properties in different directions. Exhibiting this anisotropic behavior, the crutch tip 10 flexes in any direction needed for comfortable use of the crutch 1on application of the load.
[95] In one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 6A, 6B and 6C depict the crutch 1 under different conditions. XX’ is the axis passing through the center of mass of the crutch tip 10 parallel to the ground and ZZ’ is the axis along the vertical support member 130 passing through the center of mass of the vertical support member 130. Fig. 6A shows the crutch 1 in a typical unused position wherein vertical support member 130 is perpendicular with respect to the crutch tip 10 i.e., axis ZZ’ is perpendicular to the axis XX’. The first portion 108 of the toe 12 forms the surface area of contact T with the ground, and the first portion 202 of the heel 14 forms the surface area of contact H with the ground. The surface area of contact T and H together form a full area of contact F with the ground. When the vertical support member 130 is held by a user in a habitual position, the vertical support member 130 is positioned at an angle ? with respect to the axis XX’ (see Fig. 6B). In this case, the curved shaped toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 of the crutch tip 10 flex to maintain the surface area of contact T and H with respect to the ground respectively. In other words, the surface area of contact T and H remains same as it was when the crutch tip 10 was in the typical position (see Fig. 6A). Fig. 6C shows the crutch 1 in the habitual position of a first user wherein the vertical support member 130 is inclined at an angle ?1 with the crutch tip 10 i.e., angle ?1 is formed between the axis XX’ and the axis ZZ’. Fig. 6D shows the crutch 1 in the habitual position of a second user wherein the vertical support member 130 is inclined at an angle ?2 with the crutch tip 10 i.e., angle ?2 is formed between the axis XX’ and the axis ZZ’. The design and the material of the crutch tip 10 enables the crutch tip 10 to flex, thereby allowing it to always be in full contact with the ground with a full surface area of contact F for all acute values of angle ?. Thus, even when the user holds the support member at angle ? with respect the ground or axis XX’ the crutch tip 10 remains in full contact with the ground with a full surface area of contact F.
[96] In one embodiment of the present invention, the angle ? can vary according to the needs, heights, and preferences of the user.
[97] In another embodiment of the present invention, the angle ? can be varied according to the ground surface. In the event of walking on an uneven ground surface, the toe 12 and the heel 14 of the crutch tip 10 flexes to maintain the surface area of contact T and H in a manner as discussed above.
[98] In one embodiment of the present invention, the flexing of the crutch tip 10 provides stability, comfort, and relief to the user. In still another embodiment, the flexing enables the crutch tip 10 to achieve universal character.
[99] In one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 6A illustrates an axis YY’ perpendicular to the ground, and an axis XX’ passing through the center of mass of the crutch tip 10 and parallel to the ground. As the crutch tip 10 can flex, as explained above, the adapter 116 of the crutch tip 10 is formed along an axis YY’. Thus, when the vertical support member 130 is received in the mouth 118, the vertical support member 130 is aligned along the axis YY’, i.e., is perpendicular to axis XX’, and does not require any angular offset (as needed in prior art shown in Fig. 1). As a consequence, the crutch tip 10 is easy to manufacture.
[100] In one embodiment of the present invention, a full gait cycle is described. At the time of walking when a first gait cycle starts, in the first half, the user uses the crutch 1 to move a step. The crutch tip 10 is placed on the ground in the direction of walking W. A force is exerted by the user on the crutch 1 and is transferred to the curved shaped toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 through the vertical support member 130. Because of the choice of the material and the design, the curved shaped toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 deflect and absorb this force in the form of elastic energy. In the second half of the first gait cycle, the user lifts the crutch 1 from the ground. The curved shaped toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 of the crutch tip 10 release the elastic energy absorbed in the first half and provides a forward push to the crutch 1. The usage of the crutch tip 10 according to the embodiments of the present invention assists the user in walking, wherein the user utilizes the energy absorbed by the crutch tip 10 in the first half of the first gait cycle to raise the crutch 1 from the ground in the second half of the first gait cycle. This further enables the user to conserve his/her energy while walking. The initial pressing force helps the user to move to the second gait cycle and the process continues for every next gait cycle. Accordingly, in every new gait cycle in the first half, the curved shaped toe 12 and the curved shaped heel 14 deflect because of the applied force and absorb the energy and in the second half, the absorbed energy is released by the crutch tip 10 to provide a forward push.
[101] In one embodiment of the present invention, the absorbed energy in the first half of the gait cycle enables the user to take larger footsteps.
[102] In one embodiment of the present invention, because of the flexing of the toe 12 and the heel 14, the crutch tip 10 absorbs any shock, impact, or any other type of vibrations effectively and prevents jerks in every gait cycle.
[103] In one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 7 shows the stability of the user using different crutch tips while walking. Dotted lines show the path followed by the Center of Mass of the user while walking using the crutch 1 having the crutch tip 10. As shown, path followed by the Center of Mass of the user has minimum variations in the vertical direction and follows an almost linear travel path as compared to the prior arts shown in fig. 2 thereby reducing the overall work done by the user while walking. This makes the usage of the crutch 1 with crutch tip 10 less energy consuming. In other words, the travel path of the user is more stable and jerk free. Also, the user is able to walk smoothly, comfortably and for longer durations.
[104] In one embodiment of the present invention and as shown in Fig. 8, the first portion 102 of the toe 12, and the first portion 202 of the heel 14 are configured to receive a grip 200. The grip 200 is made of a flexible material, for example, rubber. However, other materials as known to a person skilled in the art can also be used. The grip 200 is configured to provide efficient surface contact between the crutch tip 10 and the ground surface. Also, efficient gripping is provided in the event of walking on smooth surfaces and/or on the surfaces having less coefficient of friction.
[105] The crutch tip 10 according to any of the above embodiments provides support, stability, and a smooth walk to the user. Besides, increases his/her comfort, and relief while walking. The usage of the crutch tip 10 boosts his/her confidence and the user no longer feels disabled.
[106] Although the invention has been described with regard to its embodiments, specific embodiments, and various examples, which constitute the best mode presently known to the inventors, it should be understood that various changes and modifications as would be obvious to one having the ordinary skill in this art may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. All changes that come with meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
,CLAIMS:1. A crutch tip (10) for assisting a user in walking comprising:
a curved shaped toe (12) comprising a front surface (102), a rear surface (104), and a plurality of side surfaces (106) extending between the front surface (102) and the rear surface (104);
an adapter (116) is disposed on the top of the toe (12) such that the adapter (116) is configured to receive a vertical support member (130); and
a curved shaped heel (14) comprises a front surface (212), a rear surface (208), and a plurality of side surfaces (206) extending between the front surface (212) and rear surface (208);
wherein the rear surface (208) of the heel (14) is disposed on the rear surface (104) of the toe (12) such that the toe (12) and the heel (14) are curved in the opposite direction to each other.

2. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1,
wherein the toe (12) comprising a first portion (108), a second portion (110), and a third portion (112), wherein the toe (12) is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion (108) and continuing through the second portion (110) to the third portion (112); and
wherein the first portion (108) of the toe (12) is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground and the width of the front surface (102) and the rear surface (104) at the first portion (108) is greater than the width of the front surface (102) and the rear surface (104) at the second portion (110) and the third portion (112).

3. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1,
wherein the heel (14) comprises a first portion (202) and a second portion (204), wherein the heel (14) is curved with width tapering inwards from the first portion (202) of the heel to the second portion (204) of the heel (14); and
wherein the first portion (202) of the heel (14) is configured to form a surface area of contact with the ground and the width of the front surface (212) and the rear surface (208) of the heel (14) at the first portion (202), is greater than the width of the front surface (212) and the rear surface (206) of the heel (14) at the second portion (204).

4. The crutch tip (10 as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of side surfaces (106) of the toe (12) is configured to have therewithin a core out portion (116) and the core out portion (116) is an airfoil shape defined within the side surface (106).

5. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of side surfaces (206) of the heel (14) is configured to have therewithin a core out portion (266) and the core out portion (266) is an airfoil shape defined within the side surface (206).

6. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a crutch (1) comprising the crutch tip (10) with the vertical support member (130) received within the adapter (116) is configured to form an area of contact F between the crutch tip (10) and the ground at 90 degree angle between the vertical support member (130) and the ground; wherein the crutch tip (1) is configured to maintain the area of contact F when the vertical support member (130) is aligned at acute angle with respect to the ground.

7. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the toe (12) and the heel (14) are manufactured in an I cross-section, resulting in a considerable reduction in weight and increasing the flexibility and stiffness.

8. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear surface (104) of toe (12) and the rear surface (208) of the heel (14) are joined together by one or more connecting means.

9. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adapter (116) comprises a mouth (118) and a plurality of through holes (114) in the adapter (116) are configured to receive a plurality of securing elements (125) to secure the vertical support member (130) within the mouth (118).

10. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vertical support member (130) comprising a top (131) and a bottom (132)

11. The crutch tip (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the crutch tip (10) is made of anisotropic materials selected from a group consisting of rubber, wood, plastics, composites and alike.