WO2009002052A2

WO2009002052A2 - Walking supporting device for baby

Info

Publication number: WO2009002052A2
Application number: PCT/KR2008/003517
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eun Hee Kim
Original assignee: Eun Hee Kim
Priority date: 2007-06-25
Filing date: 2008-06-20
Publication date: 2008-12-31
Also published as: KR100934193B1; WO2009002052A3; KR20080114467A

Abstract

A walking support device for babies is disclosed. The walking support device of the present invention includes a grip rod (10), which is oriented in a horizontal direction to allow a baby to hold it using both his/her hands, a vertical post (20), which extends upwards from the grip rod, and a handle (30), which extends from the upper end of the vertical post to allow a guardian to hold it. The present invention can prevent the baby from falling down in his/her advancing direction and can guide the baby such that he/she can walk for himself/herself. In addition, the present invention can induce direct participation of the guardian in the growth stages of the baby, thereby promoting a good relationship between the guardian and furthering the emotional growth of the baby, as well as promoting the physical growth of the baby.

Description

WALKING SUPPORTING DEVICE FOR BABY

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates, in general, to walking support devices for babies who are not accustomed to walking and, more particularly, to a walking support device for babies which is constructed such that a guardian can directly assist a baby in walking in any variety of locations, thus improving ties to the baby, and effectively guiding the walking of the baby. Background Art

[2] Generally, babies begin toddling within nine to thirteen month after being born, depending on growth conditions. At these times, walking support devices are typically used. The walking support devices are classified into a baby- walker type device, which includes a plurality of wheels and a seat on which a baby sits, and a toy type device, which includes a handle, enabling a baby to hold it and walk leaning thereon, and a wheel for moving, the latter toy type device being provided with a melody generator and lamps.

[3] However, such baby- walker type and toy type devices are to be used indoors.

Furthermore, in the case of the baby- walker type devices, if a baby uses a baby- walker type device for an excessive long period time, it may actually obstruct the development of the walking ability of the baby, with the result that the growth of the baby may be checked. Further, in the case of the toy type devices, if a baby uses a toy type device alone or a guardian is careless while the baby uses it, there is the high possibility of accidents occurring. Therefore, when the baby uses the toy type device, the guardian must pay special attention for the protection of the baby.

[4] Moreover, typically, the baby- walker type devices and the toy type devices have been developed to be used only indoors, so that it is unsuitable for them to be used outdoors. Therefore, in outside locations, a guardian, for example parents, must bend his/her back and hold the hands of the baby to assist the toddling of the baby. As such, because the guardian bends his/her back a lot and needs to move, back pain is induced due to the unstable posture. In addition, because the guardian faces the baby and moves backwards, a guardian's field of vision in the baby's walking direction is not ensured. Accordingly, there is the possibility of accidents occurring.

[5] If the guardian holds the baby using his/her one hand and assists the toddling of the baby, it is difficult for the baby to maintain balance, so that the baby may easily stagger. Thus, the walking exercise of the baby cannot be satisfactorily performed. Accordingly, it is difficult for a guardian to directly assist the baby in walking. Disclosure of Invention

Technical Problem

[6] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a walking support device for babies which has a simple structure so that it is handy to carry and is able to be used in a variety of locations, and which is constructed such that a guardian can actively assist a baby in walking such that the baby can learn walking with good posture. Technical Solution

[7] In order to accomplish the above object, the present invention provides a walking support device for babies, including: a longitudinal grip rod oriented in a horizontal direction, so that a baby holds the grip rod using his/her both hands; a vertical post extending from a first end of the grip rod in a vertical direction; and a handle extending in a horizontal direction from an upper end of the vertical post, the handle being held by the guardian.

[8] Preferably, at least one of the vertical post and the grip rod may have a length adjusting means to selectively adjust a length thereof. The length adjusting means may include: a large diameter pipe having a tightening part on one end thereof, the tightening part comprising elastic pieces spaced apart from each other at regular angular intervals; a small diameter pipe inserted into the large diameter pipe so as to be slidable forwards or backwards; and a tightening adjustment ring screwed over a circumferential outer surface of the large diameter pipe, the tightening adjustment ring being reduced in an inner diameter from a first end thereof to a second end thereof such that the tightening adjustment ring compresses the tightening part of the large diameter pipe.

[9] Furthermore, a support board may be integrally or removably provided on the vertical post. The support board may be brought into contact with a portion of a leg of the guardian to disperse a load applied to the grip rod.

[10] In addition, the grip rod may be covered with a shock absorption cover made of at least one selected from among sponge, silicone, rubber, urethane, synthetic resin, leather and fabric.

[11] As well, a guide bar may protrude upwards from a second end of the grip rod.

[12] Moreover, a subsidiary vertical post may be integrally or removably coupled to a second end of the grip rod. The subsidiary vertical post may have a subsidiary handle.

[13] Alternatively, a wheel shaft may be integrally or removably coupled to the grip rod.

The wheel shaft may extend downwards, with a wheel provided on a lower end of the wheel shaft. [14] As a further alternative, a support wheel may be integrally or removably coupled to a second end of the grip rod.

[15] The handle may comprise a plurality of handles to form a structure of handles of differing heights, wherein at least one of the handles is integrally coupled to the vertical post or is coupled to the vertical post so as to be removable in a screw coupling manner.

[16] Preferably, a subsidiary grip cover may be fitted over a circumferential outer surface of the upper end of the vertical post.

[17] The features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the attached drawings. The terms and words used in the specification and claims are not necessarily limited to typical or dictionary meanings, but must be understood to indicate concepts selected by the inventor as the best method of illustrating the present invention, and must be interpreted as having meanings and concepts adapted to the scope and sprit of the present invention to promote an understanding of the technology of the present invention.

Advantageous Effects

[18] A walking support device for babies according to the present invention has a simple structure and is handy to carry, thus is capable of being used in any of a variety of locations. Particularly, the height of the walking support device can be adjusted to correspond to a body type of a baby merely by a simple manipulation of the device, so that the conventional problems attributable to a difference in size between the baby and a guardian can be solved. As a result, both the guardian and the baby can maintain good postures while the baby performs the walking exercise.

[19] Furthermore, the present invention can prevent a baby beginning toddling from falling down in the direction in which the baby is advancing, and it can guide the baby such that he/she can walk for himself/herself, thus reducing a sense of unease created by walking, and promoting the development of the leg muscles. In addition, the present invention can be effectively used in taking a walk or going out with a baby who is not accustomed to walking. Hence, the present invention induces direct participation of the guardian for a long period during the growth of the baby, thereby promoting the relationship between the guardian and the sentimental growth of the baby, as well as promoting the physical growth of the baby. Brief Description of the Drawings

[20] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[21] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [22] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a third embodiment of the present invention; [23] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; [24] FIG. 5 is a sectional view showing the construction of a critical portion of the walking support device according to the present invention; [25] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; [26] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; [27] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention; [28] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the usage of the walking support device of FIG.

8; [29] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention; [30] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [31] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention; [32] FIGS. 13 and 14 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention; [33] FIGS. 15 and 17 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention; and [34] FIGS. 18 and 19 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [35] <Description of the elements in the drawings>

[36] 1: walking support device 10: grip rod

[37] 10a: shock absorption cover 11: guide bar

[38] 1 Ia: guide bar cover 20: vertical post

[39] 30: handle 30a: handle cover

[40] 40: safety belt 41: connection band

[41] 50: length adjustment means 51: large diameter pipe

[42] 52: tightening part 52a: elastic piece

[43] 53: small diameter pipe 55: tightening adjustment ring

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [44] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description.

[45] Hereinafter, a walking support device for babies according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[46] Reference should now be made to the drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used throughout the different drawings to designate the same or similar components. Furthermore, in the description of the present invention, an explanation of well-known functions and constructions will be omitted so that the present invention can be described more clearly.

[47] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[48] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 of the present invention includes a grip rod 10, which has a diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which vertically extends from a first end of the grip rod 10, and a handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand.

[49] Preferably, the grip rod 10 is a pipe, which has a predetermined length and enables the baby to hold it using both hands to support his/her body. The grip rod 10 has an appropriate diameter such that the baby can easily grasp the grip rod 10. Alternatively, the grip rod 10 may be a planar board, which has a predetermined thickness to allow the baby to put his/her hands thereon and has grip holes to allow the baby to grip it.

[50] Furthermore, because the grip rod 10 serves to support the body of the baby when the baby is holding the grip rod 10, the grip rod 10 is preferably covered with a shock absorption cover 10a, which made of at least one selected from among sponge, silicone, rubber and urethane, said group being composed in consideration of the safety of the baby.

[51] Meanwhile, the grip rod 10 is preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy to reduce the weight thereof, but, in consideration of simplifying the process of forming the grip rod 10, the grip rod 10 may be manufactured using plastic through an injection molding process.

[52] The grip rod 10 having the above-mentioned structure is connected at the first end thereof to the vertical post 20 and the second end thereof is connected to the guide bar 11. Here, the guide bar 11 serves to prevent the baby from falling down in the direction opposite the vertical post 20 and also provide a sense of safety from falling to the baby. The guide bar 11 has a height less than that of the vertical post 20, as shown in the drawing. Preferably, the guide bar 11 is covered with a guide bar cover 11a, which is made of sponge, silicone, rubber or urethane, having superior shock absorbing ability.

[53] The vertical post 20 is a member, which extends a predetermined length upwards from the first end of the grip rod 10. The vertical post 20 is integrally connected to the handle 30, which is used by the guardian, so that the force the guardian uses for supporting the baby is transmitted to the baby via the handle 30 and the vertical post 20. The vertical post 20 may have a linear pipe shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the vertical post 20 may be curved to improve the aesthetic appearance of the walking support device.

[54] The handle 30 is for the use of the guardian. As shown in the drawing, the handle 30 extends in the horizontal direction from the upper end of the vertical post 20. A handle cover 30a, which has an uneven surface, is fitted over the handle 30 such that the guardian can firmly grip the handle 30.

[55] To use the walking support device 1 according to the first or second embodiment of the present invention having the above-mentioned construction, the guardian holds the handle 30 using his/her hand and disposes the grip rod 10 ahead of the chest of the baby. In this state, after the baby grabs the grip rod 10 using the both hands and stands up supporting him or herself on the walking support device, the guardian slowly moves in the direction in which the baby is facing, thus helping the baby to toddle. At this time, using the handle 30 the guardian supports the weight of the baby which is being placed on the grip rod 10. Here, thanks to the height of the vertical post 20, the guardian does not need to bend his/her back. Therefore, the guardian can maintain the stable posture while assisting the toddling of the baby.

[56] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[57] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 according this embodiment of the present invention includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to grab onto it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, a handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand, and a length adjusting means 50, which is provided to adjust the height of the vertical post 20 and the orientation of the handle 30 via rotation.

[58] The constructions of the grip rod 10, the vertical post 20 and the handle 30 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary. The third embodiment is characterized in that it is constructed such that the guardian can arbitrarily lengthen or shorten the vertical post 20 to adjust the distance between the handle 30 and the grip rod 10.

[59] As shown in FIG. 5, the length adjusting means 50 alternatively may allow the vertical post to be adjustable in length. The length adjusting means 50 includes at least two pipes having different diameters and a locking unit, which locks the two pipes to each other in the state in which the relative lengths of the two pipes have been adjusted. Various well-known techniques can be applied to the length adjusting means 50. In the present invention, in consideration of the external appearance and the ease and comfort of using the device, the construction shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is proposed as a preferable one for the length adjusting means 50.

[60] In detail, the length adjusting means 50 of the present invention includes a large diameter pipe 51, which has a tightening part 52 on one end thereof. The tightening part 52 comprises a plurality of elastic pieces 52a, which are spaced apart from each other at regular angular intervals. The length adjusting means 50 further includes a small diameter pipe 53, which is inserted into the large diameter pipe 51 so as to be slidable and have a predetermined length, and a tightening adjustment ring 55, which is screwed over the circumferential outer surface of the large diameter pipe 51. The tightening adjustment ring 55 serves to compress the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51 and thus reduce the diameter of the tightening part 52, thereby increasing the frictional force between the small diameter pipe 53 and the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51.

[61] When the guardian rotates the tightening adjustment ring 55 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51 tightens or releases the small diameter pipe 53. When the small diameter pipe 53 is released from the tightening part 52, the small diameter pipe 53 can be extracted from or retracted into the large diameter pipe 51, thus adjusting the entire length thereof.

[62] The large diameter pipe 51 and the small diameter pipe 53 respectively form the upper and lower parts or the lower and upper parts of the vertical post 20. The length adjusting means 50 can be easily derived from a well-known technique, therefore further explanation thereof will be skipped.

[63] The walking support device 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention having the above-mentioned construction is used to assist the toddling of the baby in the same manner as the first embodiment. Unlike the first embodiment, the third embodiment is characterized in that the length of the vertical post 20 is adjustable using the length adjusting means 50, which is provided on the vertical post 20. As well, the third embodiment may be constructed such that the large diameter pipe 51 and the small diameter pipe 53 of the length adjusting means 20 are rotatable with respect to each other so that the orientation of the handle 30 can be adjusted to a direction desired by the guardian.

[64] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[65] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 according to this embodiment of the present invention includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, a handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand, and a length adjusting means 50, which adjusts the length of the grip rod 10.

[66] The structures of the grip rod 10, the vertical post 20 and the handle 30 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary. The fourth embodiment is characterized in that it is constructed such that the guardian can arbitrarily lengthen or shorten the length of the grip rod 10 to correspond to the size of the baby.

[67] As shown in FIG. 5, the length adjusting means 50 selectively allows the grip rod to be adjustable in length. In detail, the length adjusting means 50 includes a large diameter pipe 51, which has a tightening part 52 on one end thereof. The tightening part 52 comprises a plurality of elastic pieces 52a, which are spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. The length adjusting means 50 further includes a small diameter pipe 53, which is inserted into the large diameter pipe 51 so as to be slidable and has a predetermined length, and a tightening adjustment ring 55, which is screwed over the circumferential outer surface of the large diameter pipe 51. The tightening adjustment ring 55 serves to compress the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51 and thus reduce the diameter of the tightening part 52, thereby increasing the frictional force between the small diameter pipe 53 and the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51.

[68] When the guardian rotates the tightening adjustment ring 55 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the tightening part 52 of the large diameter pipe 51 tightens or releases respectively the small diameter pipe 53. When the small diameter pipe 53 is released from the tightening part 52, the small diameter pipe 53 can be extracted from or retracted into the large diameter pipe 51, thus adjusting the entire length of the member.

[69] As shown in the drawing, one selected from between the large diameter pipe 51 and the small diameter pipe 53 is bent at one end thereof upwards, thus forming a guide bar 11. Here, the guide bar 11 is covered with a guide bar cover 1 Ia, in the same manner as that of the above-stated first embodiment.

[70] The walking support device 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention having the above-mentioned construction is used to assist the toddling of the baby in the same manner as the first embodiment. Unlike the first embodiment, the fourth embodiment is characterized in that the length of the grip rod 10 can be adjusted depending on the changing size of the growing baby. As well, the fourth embodiment may be used to support the walking of two or more babies, such as babies born in consecutive years or twins. In addition, when necessary, the orientation of the guide bar 11 may be adjusted.

[71] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[72] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 according this embodiment of the present invention includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, a handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand, a length adjusting means 50, which adjusts the length of the grip rod 10, and a support board 25, which disperses the load applied to the walking support device 1.

[73] The constructions of the grip rod 10, the vertical post 20 and the handle 30 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the fourth embodiment, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary. Unlike other above-mentioned embodiments, the fifth embodiment is characterized in that the walking support device further includes the support board 25, which is constructed such that the guardian can disperse a load that is applied to the device by the weight of the baby.

[74] As shown in the drawing, the support board 25 may be constructed such that it is removably mounted at a predetermined position to the vertical post 20. This can be derived by a well-known technique. For example, a screw hole is formed at a predetermined position in the vertical post 20, and a screw member, such as a bolt, is integrally provided on the support board 25. Then, the support board 25 can be removably mounted to the vertical post 20 by a screw coupling method.

[75] The support board 25 has a structure such that it surrounds a portion of the leg of the guardian. Preferably, the support board 25 is made of soft synthetic resin.

[76] The walking support device 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention having the above-mentioned construction is used to assist the toddling of the baby, in the same manner as the fourth embodiment. Characteristically, the walking support device 1 of the fifth embodiment can disperse and support the load, applied to the walking support device 1, using the handle 30 and the support board 25.

[77] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[78] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device of this embodiment has the construction similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

[79] In detail, the walking support device 1 according to this embodiment is constructed such that a guide bar 11 can be separated from a second end of the grip rod 10. A subsidiary vertical post having a handle may be selectively connected to the second end of the grip rod 10. Alternatively, a wheel shaft p having a wheel w may be selectively connected to the second end of the grip rod 10. As a further alternative, one of the above components, that is, the guide bar 11, the subsidiary vertical post or the wheel shaft may be integrated with the grip rod 10, although this is not shown in the drawings.

[80] Here, the construction of the guide bar 11 or the subsidiary vertical post, which are removably provided, is the same as that of the above-stated embodiments, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary.

[81] Meanwhile, at least one wheel shaft wp having a wheel w may be provided on the grip rod 10. As one example, two wheel shafts may be provided on the respective opposite ends of the grip rod. Alternatively, one wheel shat may be provided on one of the opposite ends of the grip rod. Here, the wheel preferably has an appropriate size.

[82] Furthermore, the grip rod 10 may be provided with a relatively large support wheel dw. The support wheel dw may be integrated with the grip rod 10 or, alternatively, it may be removably coupled to the grip rod 10. In this embodiment of the present invention, the support wheel dw is coupled to the grip rod 10 so as to be removable from the grip rod 10 using a shaft pin dp.

[83] In the case of the walking support device 1 according to the sixth embodiment, two guardians may hold the respective handles, which are provided on the respective opposite ends of the grip rod 10, and help the baby to toddle. Alternatively, a single guardian may hold the handle, which is provided on the one end of the grip rod, and guide the toddling of the baby using the wheel w, which is a rolling contact component and is provided below the grip rod.

[84] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. The walking support device 1 according this embodiment of the present invention includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, and a handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand. Such construction of this embodiment is the same as that of the fourth embodiment, thus further explanation will be skipped.

[85] However, in this embodiment, separate coupling members 43, such as buckles, are provided on the grip rod 10, which is held by the hands of the baby. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9, a safety belt 40 is connected to the grip rod 10 through the coupling members 43.

[86] In the drawing, the reference numeral 40 denotes the safety belt 40, which has a carrier shape which surrounds the body of the baby. The reference numeral 41 denotes connection bands 41, which connect the respective coupling members 43, which have buckle structures and are provided on the grip rod 10, to the safety belt 40. The safety belt 40 and the coupling members 43 can be easily derived from the well-known technique. Particularly, each coupling member 43 may have a structure such that the safety belt 40 is removable from the grip rod 10. [87] In this embodiment, the guardian fastens the safety belt 40 to the baby and connects the ends of the connection bands 41, which are coupled to the safety belt 40, to the grip rod 10. Then, the baby can be prevented from walking away from a desired course or falling down while toddling.

[88] Furthermore, when the baby wants to walk without holding the grip rod 10, the guardian may dispose the grip rod 10 above the head of the baby and assist the walking of the baby. Moreover, after the toddling of the baby becomes somewhat satisfactory, the walking support device of this embodiment may function as a device for preventing the baby from excessively moving away from the guardian.

[89] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to an eight embodiment of the present invention.

[90] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 according to this embodiment includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, and a plurality of handles 30, 31 and 32, which extend from the upper end of the vertical post 20 at multiple differing heights and allow for a guardian to selectively hold one among them using his/her hand.

[91] The constructions of the grip rod 10, the vertical post 20 and the handle 30 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary. This embodiment is characterized in that the additional subsidiary handles 31 and 32, which, because they are provided below the main handle 30, enable the guardian to hold the walking support device 1 using his/her hand at a variety of heights, thus being more convenient for the guardian.

[92] Here, the subsidiary handles 31 and 32 may be integrally coupled to the vertical post

20 or, alternatively, they may be selectively removably coupled to the vertical post 20 using screw coupling structures.

[93] As for example, in this embodiment, as shown in the drawing, the subsidiary handle

31, which is disposed at an upper position, includes a connection pipe part 31b, which is integrally coupled to the sidewall of the vertical post 20 by welding or the like, and a handle cover 31a, which has an uneven grip surface such that the guardian conveniently holds it using his/her hand. The other subsidiary handle 32, which is disposed below the subsidiary handle 31, includes a connection pipe part 32b, which is integrally coupled at a first end thereof to the sidewall of the vertical post 20 by welding or the like and has an internal threaded hole on a second end thereof, and a handle cover 32a, which integrally has on one end thereof an external threaded part, which is screwed into the internal threaded hole of the connection pipe part 32b. The handle cover 32a also has an uneven grip surface such that the guardian can easily grasp it using his/her hand. [94] In brief, the major characteristic of this embodiment is that several additional subsidiary handles are provided below the main handle 30 which is disposed at the uppermost end of the vertical post 20. In addition, each subsidiary handle may be integrally coupled to the vertical post 20 by welding or the like or, alternatively, it may be removably coupled to the vertical post 20 by a screw coupling method or a force- fitting method. The number of subsidiary handles, the positions thereof and the coupling structure between the subsidiary handles and the vertical post may be varied as necessary.

[95] The walking support device 1 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention having the above-mentioned construction can be used to assist the toddling of the baby, in the same manner as the first embodiment. Particularly, the several additional subsidiary handles 31 and 32 are provided on the sidewall of the vertical post 20, so that the guardian can selectively use one of the main handle or the subsidiary handles, the selected one corresponding to the body size of the guardian. Therefore, the guardian can stably guide the toddling of the baby.

[96] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[97] As shown in the drawing, the walking support device 1 according to this embodiment includes a grip rod 10, which has length and diameter appropriate to allow a baby to hold it using his/her hands, a vertical post 20, which extends upwards from a first end of the grip rod 10, and a main handle 30, which extends from the upper end of the vertical post 20 and allows for a guardian to hold it using his/her hand. The walking support device 1 includes a subsidiary handle 32, which is removably coupled to the vertical post 20 below the main handle 30 by a screw coupling method, and a length adjusting means 50, which is provided on the vertical post 20 below the subsidiary handle 32 to adjust the height of the vertical post 20 and the orientation of the handle 30 and the subsidiary handle 32 in a rotating manner.

[98] The constructions of the grip rod 10, the vertical post 20 and the handle 30 according to this embodiment is the same as those of the first embodiment, therefore further explanation is deemed unnecessary. This embodiment is characterized in that the additional subsidiary handle 32 is removably provided below the main handle 30 and the length adjusting means 50 is provided such that the guardian can arbitrarily lengthen or shorten the vertical post 20 to adjust the distance between the grip rod 10 and the handles 30 and the subsidiary handle 32.

[99] Here, the constructions of the subsidiary handle 32 and the length adjusting means 50 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the prior embodiment, therefore detailed explanation will be skipped.

[100] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a walking support device for babies, according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. The general construction of the tenth embodiment remains the same as the ninth embodiment, except for having a support board 25, which is brought into contact with the leg of the guardian to disperse a load that is applied by the weight of the baby.

[101] Here, the construction of the support board 25 is the same as that of the fifth embodiment, thus detailed explanation is deemed unnecessary.

[102] FIGS. 13 and 14 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The walking support device 1 of this embodiment is constructed such that the guardian can arbitrarily lengthen or shorten a vertical post to adjust the distance between a handle and a grip rod, in the same manner as that of the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4.

[103] In detail, a length adjusting means 50 is constructed such that the length of the vertical post can be extended or contracted. The length adjusting means 50 includes at least two pipes, which have different diameters, and a locking unit, which locks the two pipes to each other in the position to which the two pipes have been adjusted. Various well-known techniques can be applied to the length adjusting means 50. In the present invention, in consideration of the external appearance and the ease and convenience of the use of the device, the construction shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 is proposed as a preferable one for the length adjusting means 50.

[104] As shown in the drawings, the length adjusting means 50 includes a small diameter pipe 53a. The small diameter pipe 53a has a tapered part 53b, which is reduced in diameter towards the end thereof, and a bolt member 53c, which protrudes from the end of the tapered part 53b. The length adjusting means 50 further includes an elastic extension unit 54, which has at the center thereof a nut member 54n, into which the bo It member 53c of the small diameter pipe 53a is screwed. The elastic extension unit 54 further has elastic pieces 54a, which extend predetermined lengths towards the small diameter pipe 53a and are separated from each other such that the inner surfaces thereof come into contact with the tapered part 53b. The length adjusting means 50 further includes a large diameter pipe 51a, into which the elastic extension unit 54 is inserted. The large diameter pipe 51a has an inner diameter appropriate for inserting the small diameter pipe 53a thereinto. Furthermore, a housing h is integrally provided on the small diameter pipe 53a at the junction between the small diameter pipe 53a and the large diameter pipe 51a, such that the housing h covers portion of the large diameter pipe 51a.

[105] In the length adjusting means 50 having the above-mentioned construction, when the guardian rotates the large diameter pipe 51a and the small diameter pipe 53a in the opposite directions with respect to each other, the bolt member 53c of the small diameter pipe 53a is moved in a direction, in which it is tightened into or released from the nut member 54n of the elastic extension unit 54. As a result, the elastic pieces 54a of the elastic extension unit 54 are separated or contracted in the diameter direction by the inclined surface of the tapered part 53b, so that the coupling force between the large diameter pipe 51a and the small diameter pipe 53a is increased or they are released from each other. When the large diameter pipe 51a and the small diameter pipe 53a are in a state of having been released from each other, the large diameter pipe 51a and the small diameter pipe 53a can slide with respect to each other, so that they may be separated from each other or the small diameter pipe 53a may be inserted into the large diameter pipe 51a, thereby adjusting the length of the two pipes.

[106] FIGS. 15 and 17 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, in which FIG. 15 is a perspective view, and FIGS. 16 and 17 are sectional views of a critical portion of the device to illustrate the usage thereof.

[107] The walking support device 1 according to this embodiment is easily understood as a modification of the eleventh embodiment, having a structure such that the guardian can arbitrarily increase or reduce the length of a vertical post, thus adjusting the distance between the handle and the grip rod.

[108] That is, a length adjusting means 50 according to the twelfth embodiment is constructed such that the length of the vertical post can be extended or contracted. The length adjusting means 50 includes at least two pipes, which have different diameters, and a locking unit, which locks the two pipes to each other at the position to which the two pipes have been relatively adjusted.

[109] In detail, the length adjusting means includes a large diameter pipe 51a' and a small diameter pipe 53a', which have different diameters and are slidably coupled to each other using an insertion-type of manner. The small diameter pipe 53 a' has therein a plate spring tp, which is an elastic support member. A stop protrusion sp, which is coupled to a first end of the plate spring tp so that the elastic force of the plate spring tp is applied thereto, retractably protrudes from the outer surface of the small diameter pipe through a hole, the hole being formed at a predetermined position through the outer surface of the small diameter pipe.

[110] Here, the plate spring tp is fastened at a second end thereof to the circumferential inner surface of the small diameter pipe 53 a' and is coupled at the first end thereof to the stop protrusion sp. The portion of the stop protrusion sp which is exposed to the outside of the small diameter pipe has a rounded shape.

[I l l] Meanwhile, in the large diameter pipe 51a', into which the small diameter pipe 53a' is inserted, positioning holes 51b' are formed at positions spaced apart from each other at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction of the large diameter pipe 51a'. Each positioning hole 51b' has a size made appropriate to fit the stop protrusion sp thereinto. [112] To adjust the length of the vertical post using the length adjusting means 50, after the large diameter pipe 51a' and the small diameter pipe 53a' are disposed at desired positions relative to each other, the stop protrusion sp of the small diameter pipe 53a' is aligned with an adjacent positioning hole 51b' of the large diameter pipe 51a'. Then, the stop protrusion sp snaps into the selected positioning hole 51b' by the elastic force of the plate spring tp. Thereby, the large diameter pipe 51a' and the small diameter pipe 53 a' can be firmly locked to each other without undesirably moving relative to each other.

[113] In the drawings, the reference character f denotes a frictional member, which is provided on the upper end of the small diameter pipe 53a'. The frictional member f is brought into contact with the circumferential inner surface of the large diameter pipe 51a', thus functioning to prevent the small diameter pipe 53a' from excessive rapid movement relative to the position of the large diameter pipe 51a'.

[114] FIGS. 18 and 19 are views showing a walking support device for babies, according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[115] The walking support device 1 according to this embodiment is a modification of the eleventh embodiment, having a structure such that the guardian can arbitrarily increase or reduce the length of a vertical post, thus adjusting the distance between the handle and the grip rod.

[116] That is, a length adjusting means 50 according to the thirteenth embodiment is constructed such that the length of the vertical post can be extended or contracted. The length adjusting means 50 includes at least two pipes, which have different diameters, and a locking unit, which locks the two pipes to each other at the position to which the two pipes have each been adjusted.

[117] In detail, the length adjusting means includes a large diameter pipe 51a" and a small diameter pipe 53a", which have different diameters and are slidably coupled to each other in an insertion-type manner. A single through hole is formed through one selected from between the small diameter pipe 53a" and the large diameter pipe 51a". Several through holes, one of which will be in contact with the above single through hole, are formed through a remaining one of the small diameter pipe 53a" and the large diameter pipe 51a" at positions spaced apart from each other at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction. A locking bolt b is inserted into the through holes of the large diameter pipe 53a" and the small diameter pipe 53a" when they are aligned with each other. The locking bolt b is tightened by a locking nut n. Thereby, the small diameter pipe 53a" and the large diameter pipe 51a" are locked to each other.

[118] In this embodiment, for descriptive purposes, positioning holes 51b", which are the several through holes, are illustrated as being formed through the large diameter pipe 53a" at positions spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the large diameter pipe 53a", and a single through hole 53b" is illustrated as being formed through the small diameter pipe 53a", which is slidably inserted into the large diameter pipe 53a".

[119] In the drawings, the reference character f denotes a frictional member. This frictional member f has the same function as that of the twelfth embodiment, thus detailed explanation is deemed unnecessary.

[120] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, these modifications, additions and substitutions must be regarded as falling within the bounds of the accompanying claims of the invention.

Claims

[1] A walking support device for babies, comprising: a longitudinal grip rod oriented in a horizontal direction, so that a baby holds the grip rod using his/her both hands; a vertical post extending from a first end of the grip rod in a vertical direction; and a handle extending in a horizontal direction from an upper end of the vertical post, the handle being held by the guardian.

[2] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the vertical post and the grip rod has length adjusting means to selectively adjust a length thereof, the length adjusting means, comprising: a large diameter pipe having a tightening part on one end thereof, the tightening part comprising elastic pieces spaced apart from each other at regular angular intervals; a small diameter pipe inserted into the large diameter pipe so as to be slidable forwards or backwards; and a tightening adjustment ring screwed over a circumferential outer surface of the large diameter pipe, the tightening adjustment ring being reduced in an inner diameter from a first end thereof to a second end thereof such that the tightening adjustment ring compresses the tightening part of the large diameter pipe.

[3] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a support board is integrally or removably provided on the vertical post, the support board being brought into contact with a portion of a leg of the guardian to disperse a load applied to the grip rod.

[4] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein the grip rod is covered with a shock absorption cover made of at least one selected from among sponge, silicone, rubber, urethane, synthetic resin, leather and fabric.

[5] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a guide bar protrudes upwards from a second end of the grip rod.

[6] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a subsidiary vertical post is integrally or removably coupled to a second end of the grip rod, the subsidiary vertical post having a subsidiary handle.

[7] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a wheel shaft is integrally or removably coupled to the grip rod, the wheel shaft extending downwards, with a wheel provided on a lower end of the wheel shaft.

[8] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a support wheel is integrally or removably coupled to a second end of the grip rod.

[9] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein the handle comprises a plurality of handles to form a structure of handles of differing heights, wherein at least one of the handles is integrally coupled to the vertical post or is coupled to the vertical post so as to be removable in a screw coupling manner.

[10] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein a subsidiary grip cover is fitted over a circumferential outer surface of the upper end of the vertical post.

[11] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the vertical post and the grip rod comprises, to selectively adjust a length thereof,: a small diameter pipe having a tapered part on one end thereof, the tapered part being reduced in diameter towards the end thereof, with a bolt member integrally provided on the end of the tapered part; an elastic extension unit having at a center thereof a nut member, into which the bolt member of the small diameter pipe is screwed, the elastic extension unit comprising elastic pieces divided from each other and in contact with the tapered part, so that the elastic pieces are separated from each other or contracted towards each other in radial directions, selectively; and a large diameter pipe, into which the elastic extension unit provided with the elastic extension unit is inserted by sliding.

[12] The walking support device for babies according to claim 1, wherein at least one or each of the vertical post and the grip rod comprises, to selectively adjust a length thereof,: a small diameter pipe; and a large diameter pipe, into which the small diameter pipe is inserted by sliding, wherein a stop protrusion is elastically supported in the small diameter pipe and elastically protrudes from an outer surface of the small diameter pipe, and positioning holes are formed in the large diameter pipe at positions spaced apart from each other at regular intervals along a longitudinal direction of the large diameter pipe, so that the stop protrusion of the small diameter pipe is selectively inserted into one of the positioning holes.