Sock donning device

Abstract

The sock donning device is an apparatus that allows an individual of limited ability of movement to put on a sock. The device includes a pair of laterally spaced, hinged, telescoping rods that are connected to a substantially ovoid or circular hoop assembly, with rollers positioned about its circumference. The device is mounted to a base that may be made from wood or similar material. The rollers and hoop assembly hold an upper portion of the sock open as the user inserts his or her feet into the sock.

1 - 20 . (canceled) 
   
   
       21 . A sock donning device, comprising:
 a base;   a plurality of rods being spaced apart a fixed distance and having lower ends and upper ends, the lower ends of said rods being attached to said base and the upper ends including a hoop assembly adapted to support a sock in an open, wound configuration, wherein said hoop assembly defines a substantially circular support for the sock, whereby the sock is permitted to unwind as a user pushes his or her foot downward into the sock.   
   
   
       22 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 21 , further comprising a hinge pivotally attached to said base, the hinge pivoting about a vertical axis, said rods being pivotally mounted to said base about a horizontal axis through an arc of 45°. 
   
   
       23 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 21 , further comprising a layer of textured material disposed on said base to provide a secure surface which a user can engage so as to prevent the device from slipping while being used. 
   
   
       24 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 21 , wherein said hoop assembly includes a plurality of rollers mounted on the hoop assembly and defining said substantially circular support for the sock. 
   
   
       25 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 24 , wherein said plurality of rollers comprise a plurality of substantially spherical beads. 
   
   
       26 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 21 , further comprising a hinged bracket mounted on said base, said rods being attached to the hinge in order to pivot thereon. 
   
   
       27 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 26 , wherein said rods form a U-shaped member wherein the base of the U-shaped member is mounted to said bracket. 
   
   
       28 . The sock donning device as recited in  claim 21 , wherein said rods are telescopic rods having a selectively adjustable length.