a portable commode with spring assisted lifting seat has a lightweight self - supporting stand , a seat hinged to the frame and a pair of pneumatic springs for lifting the seat to an elevated position . the springs yield under the body weight of the user to depress the seat to a lowered position . the springs can be easily set at different positions on the seat to adjust for users of different body weights . a removable waste receptacle on the frame permits the commode to be used by itself , as at a bedside location , or over a conventional toilet bowl installation .