CA2228930A1 - Restraining harness assembly - Google Patents
Restraining harness assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2228930A1 CA2228930A1 CA 2228930 CA2228930A CA2228930A1 CA 2228930 A1 CA2228930 A1 CA 2228930A1 CA 2228930 CA2228930 CA 2228930 CA 2228930 A CA2228930 A CA 2228930A CA 2228930 A1 CA2228930 A1 CA 2228930A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- harness assembly
- velcro
- person
- sections
- straps
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B35/00—Safety belts or body harnesses; Similar equipment for limiting displacement of the human body, especially in case of sudden changes of motion
- A62B35/0006—Harnesses; Accessories therefor
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Emergency Management (AREA)
- Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
Abstract
The restraining harness assembly is for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture. The harness assembly has right and left flexible straps each having a shoulder section adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person, and a rear section adapted to pass over and extend down behind the back of the chair for attachment to a structural member thereof. Chest and back straps extend transversely between the right and left straps to hold them in proper place when the harness assembly is worn, while preserving the freedom of the person's arms.
Description
RESTRAINING HARNESS ASSEMBLY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates in general to a restraining harness for a person sitting ,..
in a chair, and more particularly to a restraining harness for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
BACKGROUND
Phy~;ically disabled persons, especially those who do not have all of their back and neck functioning capacities, often fall into an uncomfortable posture while sitting in a chair or a wheelchair, and cannot by themselves recover a proper sitting posture. Hence, they sometimes remain in their stooped or crooked posture until somebody notices it and assists them in regaining a proper sitting posture. Such a situation can happen while the disabled person is eating, during transportation, when watching TV, etc., i.e. anytime when he or she is sitting, and is highly frustrating and humiliating for the person. Furthermore, this puts pressure on the caregiver who is supposed to take care of the disabled person.
Known in the art is US patent n° 3,191,599 (KENDELL), which discloses a restraining harness formed of a pair of crisscrossed straps in front and in back of the user, intended to pass over his shoulders. A transverse strap, to which front ends of the crisscrossed straps are secured, holds the abdomen of the user.
The primary purpose of the harness is to prevent the user from falling from a bed or a chair, while however allowing considerable movement to the user. The harness is especially designed to prevent lateral movements of the user while allowing backward and forward movements. The harness provides no armpit support and does not prevent the user from ending up in an unpleasant and awkward posture with his torso drooping forwards.
Also known in the art is US design patent n° 257,646 (RIEDELL), which shows a geriatric restraint provided with straps that are crossed over the neck and the slhoulders of the user, which is likely to be bothersome and even dangerous for a physically disabled user. The restraint provides no armpit support.
Also known in the art is US design patent n° 363,366 (HARDING et al.), which apparently shows a harness having buckled shoulder and~abdomen straps projecting forwards from a pair of two vertical straps. Fasteners project backwards from the two vertical straps, near the centers thereof, for securing the harness to an object with accommodating attachment members. A transverse strap extends between the vertical straps at upper sections thereof, to limit the spacing bei~ween the vertical straps. The harness provides little or no real support for the shoulders or the chest of the user, and the shoulder straps may move away from each other, leaving the user in a stooped posture with his arms spread backwards.
Also known in the art are US patent n°S 4,177,807 (OCEL et al.);
4,484,572 (DOBSON); and US design patent n°s 263,640 (NANDORF); 263,641 (NANDORF); and 342,348 (PANARELLI)) However, none of the above-mentioned documents. provides a really practical, easy to use and versatile restraining harness for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
SUMMARI' One object of the present invention is to provide a restraining harness for maintainini~ a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
A subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, v~~hich maintains the upper portion of the disabled person's body in an upright po:aure, and suits various configurations of chairs, including a wheelchair.
A further subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, which facilitates the work and reduces the concern of the caregiver, e.g. a nurse, an adapted transport driver, a family member, etc.
Another subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, which is easy to install, light, comfortable (which prevents bad posture), durable and resistant, adaptable to any disabled person, affordable for any budget, attractive, easy to carry, does not impede with the functioning of the chair, and requires little space for storage.
The i~estraining harness according to the present invention comprises:
right and left elongated, spaced apart, generally parallel flexible straps each having a shoulder section adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person, and a rear section adapted to pass over ~~nd extend down behind the back of the chair for attachment to a structural rnember of the chair;
a chest strap extending substantially transversely between the shoulder sections of the right and left straps and secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap extends on a chest of the person when the harness is worn; and a back strap extendirig substantially transversely between the rear sections of the right: and left straps and connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap extends at a back of the person when the harness is worn.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention will be given herein below with reference to the following drawings, in which like numbers refer to like elements:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a restraining harness assembly according to the invention, installed on a user sitting in ~a wheelchair;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view illustrating the restraining harness assembly as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a front perspective view illustrating the mounting of a restraining harness assembly according to the invention on a user;
Figure 4 is a rear perspective view illustrating the attachment of a restraining harness assembly according to the invention on a structural member of a wheelchair;
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates in general to a restraining harness for a person sitting ,..
in a chair, and more particularly to a restraining harness for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
BACKGROUND
Phy~;ically disabled persons, especially those who do not have all of their back and neck functioning capacities, often fall into an uncomfortable posture while sitting in a chair or a wheelchair, and cannot by themselves recover a proper sitting posture. Hence, they sometimes remain in their stooped or crooked posture until somebody notices it and assists them in regaining a proper sitting posture. Such a situation can happen while the disabled person is eating, during transportation, when watching TV, etc., i.e. anytime when he or she is sitting, and is highly frustrating and humiliating for the person. Furthermore, this puts pressure on the caregiver who is supposed to take care of the disabled person.
Known in the art is US patent n° 3,191,599 (KENDELL), which discloses a restraining harness formed of a pair of crisscrossed straps in front and in back of the user, intended to pass over his shoulders. A transverse strap, to which front ends of the crisscrossed straps are secured, holds the abdomen of the user.
The primary purpose of the harness is to prevent the user from falling from a bed or a chair, while however allowing considerable movement to the user. The harness is especially designed to prevent lateral movements of the user while allowing backward and forward movements. The harness provides no armpit support and does not prevent the user from ending up in an unpleasant and awkward posture with his torso drooping forwards.
Also known in the art is US design patent n° 257,646 (RIEDELL), which shows a geriatric restraint provided with straps that are crossed over the neck and the slhoulders of the user, which is likely to be bothersome and even dangerous for a physically disabled user. The restraint provides no armpit support.
Also known in the art is US design patent n° 363,366 (HARDING et al.), which apparently shows a harness having buckled shoulder and~abdomen straps projecting forwards from a pair of two vertical straps. Fasteners project backwards from the two vertical straps, near the centers thereof, for securing the harness to an object with accommodating attachment members. A transverse strap extends between the vertical straps at upper sections thereof, to limit the spacing bei~ween the vertical straps. The harness provides little or no real support for the shoulders or the chest of the user, and the shoulder straps may move away from each other, leaving the user in a stooped posture with his arms spread backwards.
Also known in the art are US patent n°S 4,177,807 (OCEL et al.);
4,484,572 (DOBSON); and US design patent n°s 263,640 (NANDORF); 263,641 (NANDORF); and 342,348 (PANARELLI)) However, none of the above-mentioned documents. provides a really practical, easy to use and versatile restraining harness for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
SUMMARI' One object of the present invention is to provide a restraining harness for maintainini~ a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture while preserving freedom for the arms.
A subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, v~~hich maintains the upper portion of the disabled person's body in an upright po:aure, and suits various configurations of chairs, including a wheelchair.
A further subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, which facilitates the work and reduces the concern of the caregiver, e.g. a nurse, an adapted transport driver, a family member, etc.
Another subsidiary object of the present invention is to provide such a restraining harness, which is easy to install, light, comfortable (which prevents bad posture), durable and resistant, adaptable to any disabled person, affordable for any budget, attractive, easy to carry, does not impede with the functioning of the chair, and requires little space for storage.
The i~estraining harness according to the present invention comprises:
right and left elongated, spaced apart, generally parallel flexible straps each having a shoulder section adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person, and a rear section adapted to pass over ~~nd extend down behind the back of the chair for attachment to a structural rnember of the chair;
a chest strap extending substantially transversely between the shoulder sections of the right and left straps and secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap extends on a chest of the person when the harness is worn; and a back strap extendirig substantially transversely between the rear sections of the right: and left straps and connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap extends at a back of the person when the harness is worn.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention will be given herein below with reference to the following drawings, in which like numbers refer to like elements:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view illustrating a restraining harness assembly according to the invention, installed on a user sitting in ~a wheelchair;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view illustrating the restraining harness assembly as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a front perspective view illustrating the mounting of a restraining harness assembly according to the invention on a user;
Figure 4 is a rear perspective view illustrating the attachment of a restraining harness assembly according to the invention on a structural member of a wheelchair;
Figures 5 and 6 are rear perspective views illustrating the installation and adjustment of an elastic band of a restraining harness assembly according to the invention;
Figures 7 and 8 are front perspective views illustrating the. installation and attachment: of an optional leg restraining strap prior to and after the sitting of a user; and Figure 9 is a front perspective view illustrating the installation of a shoulder section of ithe restraining harness assembly according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a restraining harness assembly for maintaining a physically disabled person 2 (shown in dashed lines) in a wheelchair 4 (shown in dashed lines) with an upright back 6 in proper sitting posture. The restraining harness assembly comprises right and left elongated, spaced ap~~rt, generally parallel flexible straps 8, 10 each having a shoulder section 12 adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person 2, and a rear section 14 adapted to pass over and extend down behind the back 6 of the chair 4 for attachment to a structural member of the chair 4, like the cross bars 16 as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
A chest strap 18 extends substantially transversely between the shoulder sections 1 2 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap 18 extends on a chest of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn. The chest strap 18 maintains the shoulder sections 12 properl~~ in place and prevents them from sliding away from the shoulders of the person 2, which would otherwise possibly result in the person 2 ending up in a stooped posture with his arms spread backwards and retained by the shoulder sections 12.
A back strap 20 extends substantially transversely between the rear sections 1 ~4 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap 24 extends at the back of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn. The back strap 20 maintains the rear sections 14 properly in place and, in cooperation with the chest strap 18, prevents the sliding away of the rear sections 14 from the shoulders of the person 2.
Preferably, a security strap 22 extends substantially transversely between the rear se~~tions 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is connected thereto at points thereof for example by means of stiches so that the security strap extends below the back strap 20 when the harness assembly is worn. Thus) should the back strap 20 break or unfasten despite the low probability of such an event, there will remain the security strap 22 to hold the right and left straps 8, 10 in pl;~ce.
Referring to Figures 3 and 9, each shoulder section 12 is provided with a cushion 2~l~ adapted to extend at least under a portion of the chest and the corresponding armpit of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn, for comfort purposes. Each cushion 24 can be made of machine washable and dryable fur, and devised to be reversible. Each cushion 24 is preferably removable by means of opposite longitudinal Velcro-type bands 80, 82 for the wrapping of the cushion 24 around the corresponding shoulder section 12.
RefE;rring to Figure 3, each shoulder section 12 can be shaped to form an elbow 26 i:hat directs the shoulder section 12 under the corresponding armpit of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn.
The chest strap 18 comprises an arrangement of buckles 28 to adjust a length of the chest strap 18. The shoulder sections 12 are provided with transverse strip members 30 having Velcro-type bands 32 as the one shown on the left strip member 30. The chest strap 18 has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type bands 34 for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands 32 of the transverse strip members 30. The chest strap 18 can be made of an elastic material.
Eaclh shoulder section 12 has a longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type band 36 as the one shown on the right shoulder section 12, positioned to extend upwardly over the corresponding shoulder of the person 2 when the harness asaembly is worn. Each shoulder section 12 also has an end 38 having a Velcro-type band 40 as the one shown on the right end 38, for operative attachment: with the Velcro-type band 36 over the corresponding shoulder of the person 2. I=ach end 38 of the shoulder sections 12 can be provided with a D-shaped pull ring member 42 that provides a better grip for users having some dexterity troubles with their hands. Preferably, the pull ring members 42 are sewn to the ends; 38 in such a way that the pull ring members 42 can b~e turned.
This permits for example to pass one of the pull ring members 42 through another pull ring member or a buckle. Once it is passed, the pull ring member 42 is set back in normal position (as shown in the Figures), thereby preventing its disengagement from the other pull ring members or buckles.
Referring to Figure 4, the rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 preferably have ends provided with fasteners for fastening the ends to an accommodlating structural member of the chair. The fastener of each end of the rear sections 14 can be formed of longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands 44, 46 on one side of the end as shown for the right end in Figure 4, for operative attachment with each other, and a buckle element 48 positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded back over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands 44, 46. The buckle elements 48 preferably comprise rollers 50 to reduce the wear and tear of the straps 8, 10 and the resistance to adjustment. Preferably, the edges of the ends of the rear sections 14 are provided with D-shaped pull ring members for the same purpose as those of the shoulder sections 12. ' Referring to Figure 2, the back strap 20 has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands 52, 54 for operative attachment with each other upon a wrapping of the back strap 20 around both rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10.
Referring to Figures 2, 5 and 6, each rear section 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 is provided with upper and lower spaced apart buckle elements 56, 48 positioned along the rear section 14, an elongated elastic band 58 extending between the buckle elements 56, 48, and a fastener mounted onto one of the buckle elements, like the cam buckle 60 in which a first end of the elastic band 58 is insertable upon twofold extension of the elastic band 58 between the upper and lower 'buckle elements 56, 48, for adjustably fastening the first end of the elastic band 58. The elastic band 58 has an opposite second end connected to one of the (buckle elements, like the buckle element 48. The buckle elements 56, ,,.
48 can be provided with rollers 62 for the same purpose as those of the buckle elements F~0. The adjustment of the first end of the elastic band 58 using the cam buckle 60 permits to have or to be without a certain degree of elasticity at the level o~f the rear section 14, relevant to the choice of the person 2.
The rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 are provided with a transverse lace 64 passing through the upper buckles 56 of the rear sections 14 and e~;tending on both sides thereof for attachment to accommodating structural members of the chair, like the handles 66. The lace 64 can be provided with a push lock element 65 to adjust the tension of the lace 64. The lace 64 assists in maintaining the restraining harness assembly in proper place on the chair 4, and leaves the hands free for the installation.
RefE~rring to Figures 1, 2, 7 and 8, the restraining harness assembly may further comprise a leg restricting strap to hold the legs of the user 2, if needed or at the choice of the user 2. The leg restricting strap has a thigh section adapted to extend and form a loop around the thighs of the person 2, and rear sections 70 adapted to extend in a crisscrossed manner under the thighs of the person 2 (~~s shown in Figure 7, prior to the user sitting downy and then on sides of the per~;on 2 and behind the back 6 of the chair 4, where the ends of the rear sections 70 can be connected together. For this purpose, the rear sections 70 of the leg re~;tricting strap can be provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement 72 for adjustable attachment of the ends of the rear sections 70.
The end of the rear section 70 that folds can be provided with a pull ring element 76. The rear section 70 can be provided with an arrangement of buckles 84, 86 for further length adjustment, as best shown in Figure 2. The thigh section 68 has opposite ends provided with an arrangement of a buckle 73 and Velcro-type bands 74, 75 for twofold attachment of the ends of the thigh section 68, as best shown in (Figure 8. The end of the thigh section 68 that folds can be provided with a pull ring element 78. The thigh section 68 can be covered with fur (not shown) to minimize or eliminate possible wounds in contact with the skin.
Thus., the installation of the restraining harness assembly is easy and fast, compatible with almost any kind and configuration of chair, and adapts to almost any size of persons by means of the multiple possible adjustments (Velcro bands and buckles). The adjustments can be carried out as much from the front as from the back. -fhe restraining harness assembly does not hamper the freedom of movements of the person 2.
It sh~~uld be apparent from the above that the restraining harness assembly is not limited to a wheelchair. The various Velcro bands can be in a different color than the straps to facilitate their distinction.
While embodiments of this invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described above, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the essence of this invention. For example, the chest strap 18 can take various shapes and configurations, like a pair of parallel or crisscrossed bands.
The attachments of the parts of the harness assembly can be achieved in many cases simply by tying or wrapping the parts together or onto accommodating structural members if required. Afl such modifications or variations are believed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Figures 7 and 8 are front perspective views illustrating the. installation and attachment: of an optional leg restraining strap prior to and after the sitting of a user; and Figure 9 is a front perspective view illustrating the installation of a shoulder section of ithe restraining harness assembly according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a restraining harness assembly for maintaining a physically disabled person 2 (shown in dashed lines) in a wheelchair 4 (shown in dashed lines) with an upright back 6 in proper sitting posture. The restraining harness assembly comprises right and left elongated, spaced ap~~rt, generally parallel flexible straps 8, 10 each having a shoulder section 12 adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person 2, and a rear section 14 adapted to pass over and extend down behind the back 6 of the chair 4 for attachment to a structural member of the chair 4, like the cross bars 16 as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
A chest strap 18 extends substantially transversely between the shoulder sections 1 2 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap 18 extends on a chest of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn. The chest strap 18 maintains the shoulder sections 12 properl~~ in place and prevents them from sliding away from the shoulders of the person 2, which would otherwise possibly result in the person 2 ending up in a stooped posture with his arms spread backwards and retained by the shoulder sections 12.
A back strap 20 extends substantially transversely between the rear sections 1 ~4 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap 24 extends at the back of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn. The back strap 20 maintains the rear sections 14 properly in place and, in cooperation with the chest strap 18, prevents the sliding away of the rear sections 14 from the shoulders of the person 2.
Preferably, a security strap 22 extends substantially transversely between the rear se~~tions 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 and is connected thereto at points thereof for example by means of stiches so that the security strap extends below the back strap 20 when the harness assembly is worn. Thus) should the back strap 20 break or unfasten despite the low probability of such an event, there will remain the security strap 22 to hold the right and left straps 8, 10 in pl;~ce.
Referring to Figures 3 and 9, each shoulder section 12 is provided with a cushion 2~l~ adapted to extend at least under a portion of the chest and the corresponding armpit of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn, for comfort purposes. Each cushion 24 can be made of machine washable and dryable fur, and devised to be reversible. Each cushion 24 is preferably removable by means of opposite longitudinal Velcro-type bands 80, 82 for the wrapping of the cushion 24 around the corresponding shoulder section 12.
RefE;rring to Figure 3, each shoulder section 12 can be shaped to form an elbow 26 i:hat directs the shoulder section 12 under the corresponding armpit of the person 2 when the harness assembly is worn.
The chest strap 18 comprises an arrangement of buckles 28 to adjust a length of the chest strap 18. The shoulder sections 12 are provided with transverse strip members 30 having Velcro-type bands 32 as the one shown on the left strip member 30. The chest strap 18 has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type bands 34 for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands 32 of the transverse strip members 30. The chest strap 18 can be made of an elastic material.
Eaclh shoulder section 12 has a longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type band 36 as the one shown on the right shoulder section 12, positioned to extend upwardly over the corresponding shoulder of the person 2 when the harness asaembly is worn. Each shoulder section 12 also has an end 38 having a Velcro-type band 40 as the one shown on the right end 38, for operative attachment: with the Velcro-type band 36 over the corresponding shoulder of the person 2. I=ach end 38 of the shoulder sections 12 can be provided with a D-shaped pull ring member 42 that provides a better grip for users having some dexterity troubles with their hands. Preferably, the pull ring members 42 are sewn to the ends; 38 in such a way that the pull ring members 42 can b~e turned.
This permits for example to pass one of the pull ring members 42 through another pull ring member or a buckle. Once it is passed, the pull ring member 42 is set back in normal position (as shown in the Figures), thereby preventing its disengagement from the other pull ring members or buckles.
Referring to Figure 4, the rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 preferably have ends provided with fasteners for fastening the ends to an accommodlating structural member of the chair. The fastener of each end of the rear sections 14 can be formed of longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands 44, 46 on one side of the end as shown for the right end in Figure 4, for operative attachment with each other, and a buckle element 48 positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded back over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands 44, 46. The buckle elements 48 preferably comprise rollers 50 to reduce the wear and tear of the straps 8, 10 and the resistance to adjustment. Preferably, the edges of the ends of the rear sections 14 are provided with D-shaped pull ring members for the same purpose as those of the shoulder sections 12. ' Referring to Figure 2, the back strap 20 has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands 52, 54 for operative attachment with each other upon a wrapping of the back strap 20 around both rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10.
Referring to Figures 2, 5 and 6, each rear section 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 is provided with upper and lower spaced apart buckle elements 56, 48 positioned along the rear section 14, an elongated elastic band 58 extending between the buckle elements 56, 48, and a fastener mounted onto one of the buckle elements, like the cam buckle 60 in which a first end of the elastic band 58 is insertable upon twofold extension of the elastic band 58 between the upper and lower 'buckle elements 56, 48, for adjustably fastening the first end of the elastic band 58. The elastic band 58 has an opposite second end connected to one of the (buckle elements, like the buckle element 48. The buckle elements 56, ,,.
48 can be provided with rollers 62 for the same purpose as those of the buckle elements F~0. The adjustment of the first end of the elastic band 58 using the cam buckle 60 permits to have or to be without a certain degree of elasticity at the level o~f the rear section 14, relevant to the choice of the person 2.
The rear sections 14 of the right and left straps 8, 10 are provided with a transverse lace 64 passing through the upper buckles 56 of the rear sections 14 and e~;tending on both sides thereof for attachment to accommodating structural members of the chair, like the handles 66. The lace 64 can be provided with a push lock element 65 to adjust the tension of the lace 64. The lace 64 assists in maintaining the restraining harness assembly in proper place on the chair 4, and leaves the hands free for the installation.
RefE~rring to Figures 1, 2, 7 and 8, the restraining harness assembly may further comprise a leg restricting strap to hold the legs of the user 2, if needed or at the choice of the user 2. The leg restricting strap has a thigh section adapted to extend and form a loop around the thighs of the person 2, and rear sections 70 adapted to extend in a crisscrossed manner under the thighs of the person 2 (~~s shown in Figure 7, prior to the user sitting downy and then on sides of the per~;on 2 and behind the back 6 of the chair 4, where the ends of the rear sections 70 can be connected together. For this purpose, the rear sections 70 of the leg re~;tricting strap can be provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement 72 for adjustable attachment of the ends of the rear sections 70.
The end of the rear section 70 that folds can be provided with a pull ring element 76. The rear section 70 can be provided with an arrangement of buckles 84, 86 for further length adjustment, as best shown in Figure 2. The thigh section 68 has opposite ends provided with an arrangement of a buckle 73 and Velcro-type bands 74, 75 for twofold attachment of the ends of the thigh section 68, as best shown in (Figure 8. The end of the thigh section 68 that folds can be provided with a pull ring element 78. The thigh section 68 can be covered with fur (not shown) to minimize or eliminate possible wounds in contact with the skin.
Thus., the installation of the restraining harness assembly is easy and fast, compatible with almost any kind and configuration of chair, and adapts to almost any size of persons by means of the multiple possible adjustments (Velcro bands and buckles). The adjustments can be carried out as much from the front as from the back. -fhe restraining harness assembly does not hamper the freedom of movements of the person 2.
It sh~~uld be apparent from the above that the restraining harness assembly is not limited to a wheelchair. The various Velcro bands can be in a different color than the straps to facilitate their distinction.
While embodiments of this invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described above, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the essence of this invention. For example, the chest strap 18 can take various shapes and configurations, like a pair of parallel or crisscrossed bands.
The attachments of the parts of the harness assembly can be achieved in many cases simply by tying or wrapping the parts together or onto accommodating structural members if required. Afl such modifications or variations are believed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Claims (23)
1. A restraining harness assembly for maintaining a physically disabled person in a chair with an upright back in proper sitting posture comprising:
right and left elongated, spaced apart, generally parallel flexible straps each having a shoulder section adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person, and a rear section adapted to pass over and extend down behind the back of the chair for attachment to a structural member of the chair;
a chest strap extending substantially transversely between the shoulder sections of the right and left straps and secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap extends on a chest of the person when the harness assembly is worn; and a back strap extending substantially transversely between the rear sections of the right and left straps and connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap extends at a back of the person when the harness assembly is worn.
right and left elongated, spaced apart, generally parallel flexible straps each having a shoulder section adapted to extend and form a retaining loop around a corresponding shoulder and armpit of the person, and a rear section adapted to pass over and extend down behind the back of the chair for attachment to a structural member of the chair;
a chest strap extending substantially transversely between the shoulder sections of the right and left straps and secured thereto at points thereof so that the chest strap extends on a chest of the person when the harness assembly is worn; and a back strap extending substantially transversely between the rear sections of the right and left straps and connected thereto at points thereof so that the back strap extends at a back of the person when the harness assembly is worn.
2. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a security strap extending substantially transversely between the rear sections of the right and left straps and connected thereto at points thereof so that the security strap extends below the back strap when the harness assembly is worn.
3. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the shoulder sections of the left and right straps is provided with a cushion adapted to extend at least under a portion of the chest and the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is worn.
4. The restraining harness according to claim 1, wherein each of the shoulder sections of the left and right straps has an elbow that directs the shoulder section under the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is. worn.
5. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein the chest strap comprises an adjusting means to adjust a length of the chest strap.
6. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein:
the shoulder sections of the left and right straps are provided with transverse strip members having Velcro-type bands; and the chest strap has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type; bands for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands of the transverse strip members.
the shoulder sections of the left and right straps are provided with transverse strip members having Velcro-type bands; and the chest strap has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type; bands for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands of the transverse strip members.
7. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the shoulder sections has a longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type band positioned to extend upwardly over the corresponding shoulder of the person when the harness assembly is worn, and an end having a Velcro-type band for operative attachment with the Velcro-type band over the corresponding shoulder of the person.
8. The restraining haress assembly according to claim 7, wherein each end of the shoulder sections is provided with a pull ring member.
9. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein the rear sections of the right and left straps have ends provided with fastening means for fastening the ends to the structural member of the chair.
10. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 9, wherein the fastening means of each end of the rear sections comprise:
longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands on one side of the end, for operative attachment with each other; and a buckle element positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded back over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands.
longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands on one side of the end, for operative attachment with each other; and a buckle element positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded back over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands.
11. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 10, wherein the edge of each end of the rear sections is provided with a pull ring member.
12. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein the back strap has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands for operative attachment with each other upon a wrapping of the back strap around both rear sections of the right and left straps.
13. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, wherein each rear section of the right and left straps is provided with upper and lower spaced apart buckle elements positioned along the rear section, an elongated elastic band extending between the buckle elements, and a fastening means mounted onto one of the buckle elements, for adjustably fastening a first end of the elastic band, the elastic band having an opposite second end connected to one of the buckle elements.
14. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 13, wherein the fastening means of each rear section of the right and left straps comprises a cam buckle in which the first end of the elastic band is insertable upon twofold extension of the elastic band between the upper and lower buckle elements.
15. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 13, wherein the rear sections of the right and left straps are provided with a transverse lace passing through the upper buckles of the rear sections and extending on both sides thereof for attachment to accommodating structural members of the chair.
16. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a leg restricting strap having a thigh section adapted to extend and form a loop around thighs of the person, and rear sections adapted to extend in a crisscrossed manner under the thighs of the person and then on sides of the person and behind the back of the chair, the rear sections. having ends connectable together.
17. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 16, wherein the rear sections of the leg restricting strap are provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement for adjustable attachment of the ends of the rear sections.
18. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 17, wherein the end of the rear section that folds is provided with a pull ring element.
19. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 16, wherein the thigh section has opposite ends provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement for detachable attachment of the ends of the thigh section.
20. The restraining harness according to claim 19, wherein the end of the thigh section that folds is provided with a pull ring element.
21. The restraining harness assembly according to claim 2, wherein:
each of the shoulder sections of the left and right straps is provided with a cushion adapted to extend at least under a portion of the chest and the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is worn, each of the shoulder sections having an elbow that directs the shoulder section under the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is worn, the shoulder sections of the left and right straps being provided with transverse strip members having Velcro-type bands; each of the shoulder sections having a longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type band positioned to extend upwardly over the corresponding shoulder of the person when the harness assembly is worn, and an end having a Velcro-type band for operative attachment with the Velcro-type band over the corresponding shoulder of the person;
the chest strap comprises an adjusting means to adjust, a length of the chest strap, the chest strap having opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type bands for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands of the transverse strip members;
each end of the shoulder sections is provided with a pull ring member;
the rear sections of the right and left straps have ends provided with fastening means for fastening the ends to the structural member of the chair, the fastening means of each end of the rear sections comprising longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands on one side of the end, for operative attachment with each other, and a buckle element positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded tack over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands, each rear section of the right and left straps being provided with upper and lower spaced apart buckle elements positioned along the rear section, an elongated elastic band extending between the buckle elements, and a fastening means mounted onto one of the buckle elements, for adjustably fastening a first end of the elastic band, the elastic band having an opposite second end connected to one of the buckle elements;
the edge of each end of the rear sections is provided with a pull ring member;
the back strap has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands for operative attachment with each other upon a wrapping of the back strap around both rear sections of the right and left straps;
the fastening means of each rear section of the right and left straps comprises a cam buckle in which the first end of the elastic band is insertable upon twofold extension of the elastic band between the upper and lower buckle elements; and the rear sections of the right and left straps are provided with a transverse lace passing through the upper buckles of the rear sections and extending on both sides thereof for attachment to accommodating structural members of the chair.
each of the shoulder sections of the left and right straps is provided with a cushion adapted to extend at least under a portion of the chest and the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is worn, each of the shoulder sections having an elbow that directs the shoulder section under the corresponding armpit of the person when the harness assembly is worn, the shoulder sections of the left and right straps being provided with transverse strip members having Velcro-type bands; each of the shoulder sections having a longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type band positioned to extend upwardly over the corresponding shoulder of the person when the harness assembly is worn, and an end having a Velcro-type band for operative attachment with the Velcro-type band over the corresponding shoulder of the person;
the chest strap comprises an adjusting means to adjust, a length of the chest strap, the chest strap having opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending Velcro-type bands for operative attachments with the Velcro-type bands of the transverse strip members;
each end of the shoulder sections is provided with a pull ring member;
the rear sections of the right and left straps have ends provided with fastening means for fastening the ends to the structural member of the chair, the fastening means of each end of the rear sections comprising longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands on one side of the end, for operative attachment with each other, and a buckle element positioned along the end at a predetermined distance from an edge thereof, to receive a portion of the end to be folded tack over another portion of the end for twofold attachment using the Velcro-type bands, each rear section of the right and left straps being provided with upper and lower spaced apart buckle elements positioned along the rear section, an elongated elastic band extending between the buckle elements, and a fastening means mounted onto one of the buckle elements, for adjustably fastening a first end of the elastic band, the elastic band having an opposite second end connected to one of the buckle elements;
the edge of each end of the rear sections is provided with a pull ring member;
the back strap has opposite ends provided with longitudinally extending elongated Velcro-type bands for operative attachment with each other upon a wrapping of the back strap around both rear sections of the right and left straps;
the fastening means of each rear section of the right and left straps comprises a cam buckle in which the first end of the elastic band is insertable upon twofold extension of the elastic band between the upper and lower buckle elements; and the rear sections of the right and left straps are provided with a transverse lace passing through the upper buckles of the rear sections and extending on both sides thereof for attachment to accommodating structural members of the chair.
22. The restraining harness according to claim 21, further comprising a leg restricting strap having a thigh section adapted to extend and form a loop around thighs of the person, and rear sections adapted to extend in a crisscrossed manner under the thighs of the person and then on sides of the person and behind the back of the chair, the rear sections having ends connectable together, the rear sections of the leg restricting strap being provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement for adjustable attachment of the ends of the rear sections, and the thigh section having opposite ends provided with a buckle and Velcro-type twofold arrangement for detachable attachment of the ends of the thigh section.
23. The restraining harness according to claim 1, wherein the chair is a wheelchair.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2228930 CA2228930A1 (en) | 1998-03-10 | 1998-03-10 | Restraining harness assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2228930 CA2228930A1 (en) | 1998-03-10 | 1998-03-10 | Restraining harness assembly |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2228930A1 true CA2228930A1 (en) | 1999-09-10 |
Family
ID=29409243
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2228930 Abandoned CA2228930A1 (en) | 1998-03-10 | 1998-03-10 | Restraining harness assembly |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2228930A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8910636B2 (en) | 2009-08-07 | 2014-12-16 | Relaxbirth Oy | Support harness |
| CN112791325A (en) * | 2021-02-26 | 2021-05-14 | 西安科技大学 | Movable safety protection device and method for aerial work |
-
1998
- 1998-03-10 CA CA 2228930 patent/CA2228930A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8910636B2 (en) | 2009-08-07 | 2014-12-16 | Relaxbirth Oy | Support harness |
| CN112791325A (en) * | 2021-02-26 | 2021-05-14 | 西安科技大学 | Movable safety protection device and method for aerial work |
| CN112791325B (en) * | 2021-02-26 | 2024-05-24 | 西安科技大学 | Mobile safety protection device and method for high-altitude operation |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |