BE1024930B1 - Casing for a mobility device handle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides a casing adapted to be removably provided over a handle, preferably with a mobility aid, comprising: an elongate shaped body extended in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said handle tubular body for receiving said handle and a second end located opposite the first end that is open or closed, characterized in that the elongated shaped body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25 -55 and the elongated body on the periphery of the first end is provided with an edge for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body, wherein the length of the elongated body is reduced respectively or enlarged. The invention also provides methods, uses, further (kit) parts.

Description

(30) Priority data:

(73) Holder (s):

VAN DEN BROECK Marie

9300, ALST

Belgium (72) Inventor (s):

VAN DEN BROECK Marie

9300 ALST

Belgium (54) Casing for a mobility aid handle (57) The invention provides a casing arranged to be removably provided over a handle, preferably a mobility aid, comprising: an elongated body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, having a first opening at a first end of said tubular body for receiving the aforesaid handle and a second end opposite the first end which is open or closed, characterized in that the elongated body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body on the circumference of the first end is provided with a rim for winding and unrolling the first end towards the second end of the elongated body wherein the length of the elongated body decreases or increases, respectively. The invention also provides methods, uses, further (kit) parts.

Fig. 1

BELGIAN INVENTION PATENT

FPS Economy, K.M.O., Self-employed & Energy

Publication number: 1024930 Filing number: BE2017 / 0099

Intellectual Property Office International classification: A61H 3/00 A61H 3/02 A61H 3/04 A61G 5/10

Date of grant: 13/08/2018

The Minister of Economy,

Having regard to the Paris Convention of 20 March 1883 for the Protection of Industrial Property;

Having regard to the Law of March 28, 1984 on inventive patents, Article 22, for patent applications filed before September 22, 2014;

Having regard to Title 1 Invention Patents of Book XI of the Economic Law Code, Article XI.24, for patent applications filed from September 22, 2014;

Having regard to the Royal Decree of 2 December 1986 on the filing, granting and maintenance of inventive patents, Article 28;

Having regard to the application for an invention patent received by the Intellectual Property Office on 29/06/2017.

Whereas for patent applications that fall within the scope of Title 1, Book XI, of the Code of Economic Law (hereinafter WER), in accordance with Article XI.19, § 4, second paragraph, of the WER, the granted patent will be limited. to the patent claims for which the novelty search report was prepared, when the patent application is the subject of a novelty search report indicating a lack of unity of invention as referred to in paragraph 1, and when the applicant does not limit his filing and does not file a divisional application in accordance with the search report.

Decision:

Article 1

VAN DEN BROECK Marie, Leo de Bethunelaan 44 box 1, 9300 AALST Belgium;

represented by

EECKHAOUDT Sabine, Gloxiniastraat 28, 9940, EVERGEM;

a Belgian invention patent with a term of 20 years, subject to payment of the annual fees as referred to in Article XI.48, § 1 of the Code of Economic Law, for: Casing for a mobility aid handle.

INVENTOR (S):

VAN DEN BROECK Marie, Leo de Bethunelaan 44 box 1, 9300, AALST;

PRIORITY:

BREAKDOWN:

Split from basic application: Filing date of the basic application:

Article 2. - This patent is granted without prior investigation into the patentability of the invention, without warranty of the Merit of the invention, nor of the accuracy of its description and at the risk of the applicant (s).

Brussels, 13/08/2018,

With special authorization:

BE2017 / 0099

CASING FOR A MOBILITY TOOL HANDLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a cover for mounting on a handle of an aid for persons with reduced mobility. The invention is situated in the field of comfort-enhancing fittings. In particular, the invention relates to an attachment for improved ease of use.

BACKGROUND

Mobility aids are widely known. These are aids aimed at reducing or preventing the mobility problem of patients. The device should provide additional stability, support and safety.

The handle plays an important role in this. It serves to seize the aid. Often a lot of weight is placed on it because a person leans on it. The handle of a mobility device is typically made of a hard plastic material or of wood. The hardness of the material has an advantage in many ways because it allows a robust and frequent use. However, it is hard in the user's hand and often sweaty.

In addition, mobility aids such as crutches also pose the problem that a few of them should use. If one falls over, it is difficult for the person with reduced mobility to pick up the fallen specimen. To remedy this, the use of magnets has been proposed, such as, for example, in GB2468897, DE202007010182 and WO 2008/147285. The use of magnets was introduced to prevent the crutches from falling. This way they can also be placed against each other.

GB2468897 describes magnets contained in an enclosure. This limits the power of the magnet. With DE202007010182, the magnet is integrated in a recess at the end of the handle. This proposal also suffers from limited magnetic force on the sides. WO 2008/147285 describes a casing for a disabled crank handle that includes a magnet body. There is no

BE2017 / 0099 does not provide information on the material used, nor on how to apply the casing.

Consequently, there is a need for further alternatives and improvements. In doing so, account must be taken of the special requirements imposed on mobility aids, namely taking into account the limited mobility of the user. This excludes complex actions.

The present invention aims to provide a solution to one or more of the above-mentioned Problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a solution that improves the comfort of use and the functionality of handles.

The object of the invention is to provide a solution to the Problems with hard, and / or sweaty surfaces of handles, especially with mobility aids.

The present invention provides a sheath arranged to be removably provided over a handle, preferably a handicapped crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid handle, comprising: an elongated body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said tubular body for receiving said handle and a second end opposite the first end which is open or closed, characterized in that it is elongated body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body on the circumference of the first end is provided with a rim for winding and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body, the length of the elongated body res reduce or enlarge respectively.

The advantage of introducing the edge is that the casing can be rolled up without complex operations being required. Rolling up can be done

BE2017 / 0099 in the absence of a hard surface. The selection of the elasticity range on the one hand ensures that the material can be stretched slightly to apply the casing over the handle. On the other hand, the elasticity is not too great so that the casing does not come off the handle too easily.

In a second aspect, the invention provides a patch arranged to be provided on a handle of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like, characterized in that it comprises a body made of a compressible material and the body is provided at least lengthwise with an adhesive for adhesion to the handle. The body is preferably T-shaped or figure-eight. Preferably, the bond is reversible, preferably reversibly reversible.

The provision of a compressible material body reduces the hardness of the surface and reduces the risk of blisters. The T-shape provides soft support for the palm of a user's hand. It is also ensured that the handle cover does not become unnecessarily thick. This benefits the user comfort.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method of manufacturing an envelope arranged to be removably provided over a handle, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, according to a preferred form of the invention, comprising the steps of:

-provided with an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55,

injection molding the elastic material into a mold to obtain an elongated shaped body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated shaped body for receiving the aforementioned handle and a second end located opposite the first end which is open or closed, and for providing on the circumference of the first end of the elongated body a rim for winding up and unrolling the first end towards the second end of the

BE2017 / 0099 elongated shaped body, whereby the length of the elongated shaped body respectively decreases or increases,

- optional arrangement of the closed end for receiving a magnetic body with which the crank or the like can be temporarily fixed with a magnetic material or material which is attracted by the magnetic body.

The selection of a Shore A 25-55 elasticity has the advantage that the material is not so smooth that the casing shears off a handle and is difficult to produce (Shore number too low). On the other hand, the material is strong enough to stretch a little and allow it to tighten over a handle after application. A number of tested Neoprene materials were not suitable. It didn't stretch enough and didn't bounce back.

In a further additional aspect, the invention provides a use of a sheath according to a preferred form of the invention, as a pimp means for a handle of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid.

A casing according to an embodiment of the invention is easily adaptable to individualize and brighten a handle, for example through the use of colored silicone. In combination with a patch, it prevents or reduces pain in a user. In addition, a combination with a magnetic body can provide extra comfort.

The invention also provides a kit of parts comprising an envelope according to an embodiment of the invention and an instruction for applying the parts of the kit over a handle of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid . Preferably, the kit comprises a patch according to an embodiment of the invention and / or a magnet.

The provision of a kit has the advantage that a user can apply and position the patch according to the size of his or her hand and according to the handle length. It allows individual tuning.

BE2017 / 0099

In a final aspect, the invention provides a method of applying a casing according to a preferred form of the invention, comprising the steps of:

providing a sheath of an elastic material according to a preferred form of the invention;

- coiling the casing over the edge applied to the open end; - applying the rolled-up casing over a handle, preferably over a mobility aid handle;

- unrolling the casing, thereby obtaining a handle provided with the casing.

The method has the advantage that it is very easy to carry out and can be repeated several times.

Further preferred forms are elaborated in the dependent claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 schematically illustrates a casing according to a preferred form of the invention.

Figure 2 shows a cross section through the sheath shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of another preferred form according to the invention, this time with a chamber for receiving a magnetic body and a logo on the closed end. Figure 3a shows a cross section along the longitudinal axis. Figure 3b shows a top view of the distal end. Figure 3c shows a detail of the roll-up edge at the open end of the casing. Figure 3d shows a detail of the head of the casing.

Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of yet another preferred form according to the invention. The entrance to the room is designed as a front room with a round shape. The diameter of the antechamber is smaller than the chamber for receiving the magnetic body, as shown in the detail view in Figure 4g. Figure 4a shows a cross section along the longitudinal axis. Figure 4b shows a detail of the head of the case. Figure 4c shows one

BE2017 / 0099 Detail view of the roll-up edge at the open proximal end of the casing. Figure 4d shows a detail of the head of the case. Figure 4e shows a cross section through the chamber and antechamber. Figure 4g shows a frontal view of the antechamber along the inside of the enclosure.

Figure 5 schematically illustrates the patch according to a preferred form of the invention. Figure 5a shows a top view. Figure 5b shows a side view. Figure 5c is a detailed view of the upright and rounded edge.

Figure 6 schematically depicts another patch according to a preferred form of the invention. The leg parallel to the longitudinal axis was made slightly larger with respect to the leg of the T-shape transverse to the longitudinal axis, compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 5. The other leg is also slightly longer.

Figure 7 schematically illustrates a use according to a preferred form of the invention. Figure 7a is a schematic representation of a handle provided with a magnetic body and patch shell, according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning generally understood by one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, definitions of the terms are included to better understand the description of the present invention.

As used here, the following terms have the following meanings: One, the, and the as used here refer to both the singular and the plural unless the context indicates otherwise. A compartment refers, for example, to one or more than one compartment.

Roughly as used here, which refers to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a length of time and the like, is intended to be variations

BE2017 / 0099 include +/- 20% or less, preferably +/- 10% or less, more preferably +/- 5% or less, even more preferably +/- 1% or less, and even more at preferably +/- 0.1% or less of the specified value, insofar as such variations are suitable to perform in the described invention. It will be understood, however, that the value to which the term roughly refers is itself also specifically described. Include, comprising and includes and consisting of as used herein are synonymous with containing, containing or containing and are indusive or open terms specifying the presence of what follows e.g. a component and the presence of additional, unlisted components, features, do not exclude elements, parts, steps that are well known in the art or described therein.

Claiming numerical ranges through endpoints includes all numbers and fractions included within that range, as well as said endpoints.

The invention provides a solution to the problem of improving the comfort of use and the functionality of handles, especially those of mobility aids. The invention provides a solution to the Problems with hard, smooth surfaces of handles that often give rise to blistering on the hands of users. Additional functionality can be provided to users with mobility problems. The operations required to apply the cover are very simple.

In a first aspect, the invention provides a sheath arranged to be removably provided over a handle, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, comprising:

an elongated body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said tubular body for receiving said handle and a second end opposite the first end which is open or closed, with characterized in that the elongated body is made of an elastic material having an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body on the circumference of the first end is provided with a rim for rolling up and unrolling the first end

BE2017 / 0099 toward the second end of the elongated body, thereby reducing or increasing the length of the elongated body.

The term casing as used herein means what is around something; that which serves to envelop. Synonyms for this are house, shell, casing, housing.

The casing of the invention is intended to be fitted as a handle housing, preferably as a mobility device handle housing. Due to the chosen elasticity of the material, the casing will clamp the handle after application. The elasticity that gave sufficient stretch and clamping for the current application is between 25 and 55 Shore A. Preferably, a Shore A is selected between 28 and 48, more preferably between 29 and 45, most preferably between 29 and 41, typically 30 or 350. This selection is optimal to provide a shell that is highly modular. The shell fits a wide range of handles and most types of crutches.

Using the rim, the cover can be rolled up to remove from the handle. This can be repeated several times. The roll-up edge preferably has a thickness of 0.5 - 5.0 mm, more preferably 0.6 - 4.0 mm, even more preferably 0.8 - 3.0 mm, most preferably 1.0-2 .0 mm. This edge thickness was not perceived as a nuisance by users and is sufficient to perform the roll-up / roll-off function. The rim is preferably provided over the entire circumference of the elongated body. This ensures a uniform way of rolling up. The provision of a roll-up edge ensures that the casing can be rolled up without the use of a support, for example a support provided by a handle provided with the casing. When used in a kit, the sheath will preferably already be rolled up. This is preferred over pleating because it is easier for a user to work with the material to apply over a handle.

The term mobility aid as used herein refers to cabin aids for persons with reduced mobility and their assistants. With the latter we think, for example, of pushers of a wheelchair. A limited one

BE2017 / 0099 mobility can be the result of a disability or accident, such as a broken leg. The aids include walking aids such as a walking stick, crutch, and walker; but also means of transport such as a wheelchair. These aids are provided with a handle that is gripped by a user so that the aid can provide improved mobility.

The elongated body preferably has a constant diameter along the longitudinal axis of the body. The diameter of the elongated body is preferably the same everywhere except for the ends; in other words the head and roll-up edge. When the casing has different diameters over the casing, it is not so easy to roll up or mount.

The elastic material is preferably a silicone, more preferably a medical grade silicone and / or antimicrobial silicone. Alternatively, a flexible textile material could be used.

By the term silicone or silicone rubber as used herein is meant a polymer in which the chain is formed by silicon and oxygen atoms. Silicones are also described as elastomers and rubbery materials.

Silicones are an inert, malleable, compressible, temperature resistant material. These properties make it extremely suitable for use in the present invention.

Silicones can be shaped into a desired shape using known techniques. By adding a hardener to the Silicone composition, the material can be cured or polymerized in a desired shape, by means of heat, pressure or condensation. The molded silicone material is preferably cured by heat. A compression molding technique can be used (compression molding) to manufacture silicone moldings. Preferably, an injection molding technique is used in which a silicone material is injected into a mold. This technique is preferably used for preparing a casing according to the invention. Compression molding can, for example, be used to make a patch according to the invention. A less suitable technique, especially for the casing, is 3D printing. This is difficult for a very elastic material and the end result

BE2017 / 0099 built up in layers gives a certain surface roughness which is undesirable for the present invention and application. Preferably, the sheath comprising Silicone does not include a textile material.

The silicone composition for fabricating the shell preferably includes 2,5-Dimethyl-2,5-di (tert-butylperoxy) hexane. This is an initiator for the polymerization or curing reaction.

The elongated body is provided with a smooth or rough silicone on the inside. In another preference, the elongated body is provided on the outside with a raw silicone. More preferably, the elongated body is provided on the inside with a smooth silicone and on the outside with a raw silicone. The raw silicone provides good tactile feedback of the material. It gives the user a pleasant feeling. Sweaty hands can be reduced. Smoothness or roughness of a molded silicone material can be obtained by an appropriate choice of mold or by roughening the surface of the molded material, for example, by milling or etching.

The silicone material is preferably a notched and / or tear-resistant silicone. This material has the property that when the material is damaged, such as for instance an incision, the crack does not continue. Preferably, the casing material has a tear strength of at least 10 kN / m, more preferably 15 kN / m, even more preferably at least 20 kN / m, most preferably at least 25 kN / m. Preferably, the casing material has a tear strength of between 10 and 30 kN / m, preferably between 11 and 28 kN / m.

The elongated body is preferably seamless at least on the outside. The absence of a noticeable transition on the outside has the advantage that, in use, the grip of the handle with casing reduces the risk of blistering.

The elongated body is preferably provided with an information carrier, at least at the closed end.

The term information carrier as used herein means an identifying color, an identifying word, a logo, icon, or other

B E2017 / 0099 means that serves as identification or information, for example a different roughness.

The information carrier preferably comprises a phosphorescent silicone. This has the advantage that the casing can light up in the dark; a so-called glow-inthe-dark.

The phosphorescent silicone can be applied during the production of the envelope, for example by admixing a phosphorescent additive into the silicone composition. In an alternative embodiment, a phosphorescent product is sprayed onto the silicone shell; a so-called sprayon. An identifying color or glow-in-the-dark is preferably provided in the full envelope.

The sheath is preferably further arranged to increase comfort in use. The second end of the elongated body is preferably closed.

In a preferred form, the elongated shaped body is at the second end for receiving a magnetic body with which said crank or the like mobility aid can be temporarily attached with a second magnetic material with pole opposite to the magnetic body or material attracted by the magnetic body.

Preferably, an enclosure according to a preferred form of the invention is provided at the closed end of the elongated shaped body with a chamber of the shape of the magnetic body and provided with an opening for insertion and form-fitting reception of the magnetic body in the chamber. The opening is preferably round, oval or slit-shaped. This has the effect that the magnet can be included in the hijacker, is more secure, less shifts. This has the advantage that in use the magnet remains in position and a good adhesion with another magnet or magnetic material is retained for longer. This embodiment has the advantage over a magnet mounted in a chamber of the crank that there is less loss in magnet strength due to the edges of the recess in the crank in which the magnet is received. In addition, the silicone material is a light, non-dense material. The magnetic body is at

BE2017 / 0099 is preferably included in a room with a wall thickness of max. 2 mm, measured in the length direction of the handle. The wall thickness of the enclosure is thicker on the sides of a magnet-shaped body, measured along the longitudinal axis of the magnet perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the enclosure. This has the advantage that fall protection is provided. With a casing without a magnetic chamber, it is also advantageous to provide additional wall thickness at the distal end. This protects the casing against damage from sharp objects in the event of a fall.

The inventor determined that in an embodiment where a magnet was adhered to the end of a closed-ended sheath, the magnet could change position resulting in breaking the bond. For a mobility device, it is undesirable that this happens unexpectedly because a user needs the device for better mobility and stability.

The opening is preferably round, oval or slit-shaped. The opening is preferably provided with rounded edges. The provision of rounded edges provides a stronger material compared to material with corners. In addition, it can be better cast in the injection molding process. The opening with rounded edges also has the advantage that the magnetic body is easier to insert. It also provides improved tear resistance.

The wall thickness of the casing, at least in the zone where the casing is engaged in use, is preferably 0.5-2.5 mm, more preferably 0.6-2.2 mm, even more preferably 0.7 mm-2.1 mm, most preferably 0.8-2.0 mm.

In another aspect, the invention provides an associated patch. More specifically, the invention provides a patch adapted to be provided on a handle, preferably with a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like aid, characterized in that it comprises a body made of a compressible material and body are provided at least lengthwise with an adhesive for adhesion to the handle.

The body is preferably T-shaped or figure-eight; preferably T-shaped. The body is preferably applied substantially the full length of the handle at the top. Preferably the base of the T-shape is closed

B E2017 / 0099 placed against a longitudinal axis of the mobility device. The thickest part of the T is preferably placed almost against the trunk of a stool. This provides maximum support for a user's palm and little finger. This positioning is also advantageous for less pain and blistering, as it provides maximum protection for the so-called loose skin between the thumb and forefinger of a user's hand.

The compressible material is preferably a silicone material or a gel material. The gel material is preferably a polyurethane (PU) gel. The gel material acts as an artificial fat layer and distributes the body weight optimally. Advantages of the compressible material are watertightness, non-odor-binding.

The preferably T-shaped body preferably has a thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm; more preferably 4.0-5.0 mm. The T-shaped body is preferably provided with slanted and / or rounded edges. This has the advantage that a blocky transition is avoided. Preference is given to a patch consisting of a gel. Most preferably, a gel material with a self-adhesive surface is used. The body can be fabricated by punching. A self-adhesive gel patch can be fabricated using a mirror die. The application of an adhesive layer is no longer necessary.

The total thickness formed by one wall thickness of the shell and the patch is preferably 4.0 mm to 8.0 mm, more preferably 4.2 - 7.5 mm, even more preferably 4.4 - 7.0 mm , most preferably 4.5 to 5.5 mm. The casing has a wall thickness of typically 2 mm in the unstretched state. In use and thus arranged around a handle, it can drop to 0.5 to 1.0 mm. The gel patch is typically 3.5mm thick. This results in a total thickness of 4.5 to 5.5 mm.

The bond is preferably reversible. This means that the body can be detached from the handle. More preferably, the adhesion is reversible. This means that it is advantageous to be able to attach the body to the handle several times and to be able to remove it again.

BE2017 / 0099

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method of manufacturing an envelope arranged to be removably provided over a handle, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, according to a preferred form of the invention, comprising the steps of:

-provided with an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55,

injection molding the elastic material into a mold to obtain an elongated shaped body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated shaped body for receiving said handle and a second end located opposite the first end which is open or closed, and for providing on the circumference of the first end of the elongated body a rim for winding up and unrolling the first end towards the second end of the elongated body with the length of the elongated body respectively decreasing or increasing,

- optional arrangement of the closed end for receiving a magnetic body with which the crank or the like can be temporarily fixed with a magnetic material or material which is attracted by the magnetic body.

In another aspect, the invention provides for use of a casing according to the invention. A sheath according to a preferred form of the invention is preferably used as a pimp for the handle of an invalid crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid. With the aid of a casing according to the invention, an aid can be embellished, embellished or decorated. Comfort is also increased, especially when used in combination with a magnetic body or patch according to a preferred form of the invention.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a kit of parts comprising a sheath according to a preferred form of the invention, and / or a patch according to a preferred form of the invention and / or a magnet according to a preferred form of the invention; and an instruction for applying the

BE2017 / 0099 parts of the kit over a handle of a disabled crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid.

When used in a kit, the sheath will preferably already be rolled up. This is preferred over pleating because a user is more comfortable with the material to apply over a handle.

In a kit according to an embodiment of the invention, preferably several casings and magnetic bodies are provided. By providing at least two of each and providing counterparts to the magnets, a user can equip at least two handles to provide additional support and stability. The magnetic bodies are preferably pre-assembled.

The magnetic bodies for use in the present invention are preferably those shown in Table 1.

Table 1

Type Get well soon (Newton) Dimensions N52 neodymium magnet 6 N 20 mm diameter x 3.5 mm thickness N52 neodymium magnet 7 N 20 mm diameter x 4.0 mm thickness N52 neodymium magnet 9 N 25 mm diameter x 4.0 mm thickness

Preferably a magnet of 7 Newton strength is used, more preferably 7 Newton strength and with a 20 mm diameter x 4.0 mm thickness. This magnet emerged best in user testing, requesting to lift a second crank using a crank. A stool had a weight of 700 to 900 g. When using a less strong magnet, picking up the crank required more agility. The stool fell faster. When using a stronger magnet, it is more difficult to loosen two handles connected by two magnets.

In a final aspect, the invention provides a method of applying a casing according to a preferred form of the invention, comprising the steps of:

BE2017 / 0099

providing a sheath of an elastic material according to a preferred form of the invention;

- coiling the casing over the edge applied to the open end;

applying the rolled-up casing over a handle, preferably over a mobility aid handle;

- unrolling the casing, thereby obtaining a handle provided with the casing.

In this way the casing can be advantageously applied. The use of a colored Silicone composition gives the possibility to personalize or pimp a handle.

The method preferably also includes the step:

-providing a patch according to a preferred form of the invention, and applying the patch to the handle before the casing is applied.

The separate provision of a patch has the advantage that it can be positioned on a handle as required by a user. If these are already provided in the envelope, the latter is difficult to roll up. The sheath is preferably manufactured without a patch insertion facility.

The invention is further illustrated by examples and figures. These are not limiting. Preferred forms of the invention are illustrated in Figures 1 to 7.

Example 1 is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 schematically illustrates the simplest embodiment of a sheath 1 according to the invention, namely an elongated body 13 with a closed distal end 15 and an open proximal end provided with a roll-up edge 17. As can be seen from the cross section through the sheath, as shown in Figure 2, the sheath 1 forms an inner chamber 19 bounded by a sheath 13 a closed end 15 which merges with bent edges 16 into the sheath 13 and terminates at the bottom with an edge 17. The surface of the jacket towards the inner chamber 23, or in other words the inside, is preferably smooth. The surface of the outer shell 22 is preferably rough

BE2017 / 0099 implemented. This is advantageous for arranging the casing over a handle and gripping the casing by a user, respectively. The inner diameter of the casing is typically 30-33 cm, the outer diameter 30-35 cm. The length or height of the casing 1 is typically 12-14 cm. The casing can be combined with a magnet. This can be achieved, for example, by applying a magnet to the end of a handle with glue or tape, and then applying the cover over it. In use, however, it has been found that the magnetic force is often stronger than the adhesive force provided by the glue or tape. This results in the magnet shifting. Incorrect positioning of the magnets that temporarily connect two handles will cause the connection to be lost. Preferably, the magnet is received in a form-fitting chamber provided in the envelope. This is illustrated in further examples.

Example 2 concerns an envelope in combination with a chamber for form-fitting accommodation of a magnetic body. Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of an envelope 1 according to the invention. The envelope 1 is provided with a space 4 for receiving a magnetic body. For this purpose the walls 8, 9 of the distal end are made thicker. This has the advantage that the deflected edges 7 are also slightly thicker compared to the embodiment of Figure 2. This has the advantage that they have a protective effect. The casing and magnet are less likely to be damaged if dropped. The roll-up edge is preferably rounded and designed to allow easy rolling up. The elasticity of the material allows the jacket 13 to yield and fold. The head or apex of the distal end can be provided with information carriers. The illustrated casing 1 bears a logo 14 on the end. The user's comfort of use is not impaired at this location.

Example 3 concerns a housing in combination with a chamber for form-fitting accommodation of a magnetic body fitted with an access. The provision of an access allows the casing to be produced in the absence of the magnet. This prevents the magnet from heating up in the production process. This benefits good positioning of the magnetic body, and therefore good adhesion with another handle. This preferred form of the invention is shown in Figure 4. The envelope is provided with a chamber 4 for receiving a magnetic body. It is further

B E2017 / 0099 provided with a circular antechamber which allows the magnetic body to be introduced into the chamber after production of the casing. Due to the elasticity of the casing material, the edges will yield somewhat so that the magnetic body can be slid into the chamber. The smaller diameter keeps the body in place. The chamber 4 is designed to fit the magnetic body. This ensures that the magnetic body fits properly and remains in place. This is an advantage for maintaining the adhesion of two handles. The casing is preferably oval-shaped as shown in Figure 4g.

Example 4 concerns a patch according to an embodiment of the invention. A patch 10 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6. It consists of a T-shaped body 30 with self-adhesive surface 37, beveled edges 31, 38 and rounded edges 32, 33. Alternatives without self-adhesive surface are also possible. However, these do not have the advantage of being frequently relocatable. In addition, the removal of an adhesive layer requires additional processing. Also, not all materials are compatible with an adhesive. Corruption of the patch can make further use more difficult.

Figure 6 schematically illustrates another patch 10 according to a preferred form of the invention. The leg parallel to the longitudinal axis of width 34 was made slightly larger compared to the leg of the T-shape transverse to the spring axis of width 35, compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 5. This has the advantage that the patch 10 can serve just about any user, whether they have small or large hands.

Example 5 concerns the material and thickness of the patch. Several experiments were performed to find the most suitable patch for use in the present invention, especially for combination with a mobility device case. The results of the experiments were summarized in Table 1.

Three different materials were tested, each in different thicknesses. It concerns a two-component silicone (A), a gel patch (B), and a PU gel (C).

Material A resistant from a flexible material, but was not a gel. There was no glue layer. The application was done by means of a bandage tape that sticks to itself.

BE2017 / 0099

Material B is a gel material. This has the advantage that pressure points are evenly distributed. The patch was supplied in production with an adhesive layer. This was detrimental to reuse. It did not allow for incorrect positioning of the patch to be easily removed from the crank and repositioned. The third material was a PU gel. This also ensured an even distribution of pressure points. The material was self-adhesive on one side. The patch could be frequently applied to a handle, removed, and repositioned.

In order to obtain user acceptance, it was important to be able to reduce pain and still offer comfort. It can be deduced from the results that as the patch increases in thickness, the experience of pain may be reduced. However, an increase in thickness means that a user's hand cannot be closed around the handle as well. This is a major flaw in an application where improved mobility is pursued. The user should not feel that there is less grip and therefore less support from using the patch.

Based on the test results, a patch thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm, was selected; more preferably 4.0-5.0 mm. Preference is given to a patch consisting of a gel. Most preferably, a gel material with a self-adhesive surface is used.

BE2017 / 0099

Table 1: Test panel feedback related to pain reduction and comfort (/ = not tested).

2K Silicone Silicone Gel Patch PU gel Patch thickness Clearly less Pain Good one handle Clearly less pain Good one handle Clearly less pain Good one handle 2 mm No Yes / / / / 3.5 mm No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 5 mm Yes Yes / / / / 7 mm Yes No No No Yes No 10 mm Yes No / / / / 14 mm Yes No No No No No

Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a use according to a preferred form of the invention, namely holding together two invalid crutches 100. For this purpose each crutch is provided with a gel patch 10 on a handle 2 of the cork. The handle is encased in a sheath 1. The sheath includes a magnet-shaped body 3 enclosed at the distal end in a form-fitting chamber 4. The magnets are opposites so that they form a temporary connection when the ends of the cranks touch. The T-shaped gel patch 10 is applied to the handle 1 so that the widest base is near the stem of the crank. In this way, in use, it provides support to a user's palm and ping. This part of the hand is most commonly used when gripping and maneuvering the handle. It is most beneficial to make this zone thicker to avoid blistering around a user's hand.

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Claims (19)

CONCLUSIONS An enclosure adapted to be removably provided over a handle of a mobility aid, preferably an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, comprising: an elongated body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, having a first opening at a first end of said elongated tubular body for receiving said handle and a second end located opposite the first end being open or closed characterized in that the elongated shaped body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated shaped body is provided on the circumference of the first end with a rim for rolling up and unrolling the first end toward the second end of the elongated body, thereby decreasing or increasing the length of the elongated body. Casing according to claim 1, characterized in that the elastic material is a silicone, preferably a medical grade silicone and / or antimicrobial silicone. Casing according to claim 2, characterized in that the elongated shaped body is made of a notched and / or tear-resistant silicone. Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated body is seamless at least on the outside. Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second, preferably closed end, is adapted to receive a magnetic body with which said crank or the like can be temporarily attached with a second magnetic material with pole opposite to the magnetic body or material that is attracted to the magnetic body. B E2017 / 0099 Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated body is provided with an information carrier at least at the closed end. Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the information carrier is phosphorescent silicone. Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a chamber with the shape of the magnetic body is provided at the closed end of the oblong-shaped body with a round, oval or slit-shaped opening for insertion and form-fitting reception of the magnetic body in the room. Casing according to claim 8, characterized in that the round, oval or slit-shaped opening is provided with rounded edges. Casing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall thickness in the area where, in use, the handle with casing is engaged, the wall thickness of a single casing wall is 0.5-2.5 mm. 11. Patch arranged to be provided on a handle of a mobility aid, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or like mobility aid, characterized in that it comprises a body made of a compressible material and the body is provided at least lengthwise with an adhesive for adhering to the handle; preferably the body is T-shaped or octagonal, and provided for combination with a removable cover according to any one of claims 1 to 10. Patch according to claim 11, characterized in that the compressible material is a polyurethane gel. Patch according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the body has a thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm; more preferably 4.05.0 mm and the T-shape has oblique and / or rounded edges. B E2017 / 0099 Magnetic body designed for use in combination with a removable cover according to any one of claims 5, 8 or 9, characterized in that the magnetic body has a magnetic strength of 7 Newton; preferably 7 Newton strength in combination with a 20 mm diameter and 4.0 mm thickness. A method of manufacturing a removable sheath arranged to be removably provided over a handle of a mobility aid, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walker, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, according to any one of claims 1 -10, comprising the steps: - provided with an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55, - injection molding the elastic material into a mold to obtain an elongated shaped body elongated in axial direction for receiving the handle, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated shaped body for receiving said handle and a second end located opposite the first end which is open or closed, and for the circumference of the first end of the elongated body, provided with a rim for winding up and unrolling the first end towards the second end of the elongated shaped body, the length of the elongated shaped body respectively decreasing or increasing, - optional arrangement of the closed end for receiving a magnetic body with which the crank or the like can be temporarily fixed with a magnetic material or material which is attracted by the magnetic body. Use of a removable cover according to any one of claims 1 to 10, preferably in combination with a patch according to any one of claims 11 to 13 and / or a magnetic body according to claim 14, as a pimp and comfort-enhancing accessory of a handle of a mobility aid , preferably for a disabled crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick or wheelchair handle. B E2017 / 0099 Kit of parts comprising a cover according to any one of claims 1-10, a patch according to any one of claims 11-13, a magnet preferably according to claim 14, and an instruction for removably applying the parts of the kit over a handle of a mobility aid, preferably of a disabled crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid. A method for removably applying an envelope according to any one of claims 1-10 over a handle of a mobility aid, preferably a handle of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, walker, walking stick, wheelchair or the like mobility aid, comprising the steps of: provided in a casing according to any one of claims 1-10; -wrapping the casing over the edge applied to the open end; - applying the rolled-up casing over a handle, preferably over a mobility aid handle; - unrolling the casing, thereby obtaining a handle provided with the casing. Mobility aid comprising a handle, removably contained in a casing according to any one of claims 1 to 10, preferably the handle is longitudinally provided with a patch according to any one of claims 1 to 13 comprising a body made of a compressible material and adhered to the body by adhesive provided in the longitudinal direction of the patch body and / or a magnetic body according to claim 14 received in the chamber provided at the closed end of the elongated body of the envelope with the shape of the magnetic body and provided of a round, oval or slit-shaped opening for insertion and form-fitting recording of the magnetic body in the chamber. BE2017 / 0099 BE2017 / 0099 BE2017 / 0099