EP1342460A2 - Method for activating blood circulation in lower limbs of a user and device for carrying out this method - Google Patents

Method for activating blood circulation in lower limbs of a user and device for carrying out this method Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1342460A2
EP1342460A2 EP03354018A EP03354018A EP1342460A2 EP 1342460 A2 EP1342460 A2 EP 1342460A2 EP 03354018 A EP03354018 A EP 03354018A EP 03354018 A EP03354018 A EP 03354018A EP 1342460 A2 EP1342460 A2 EP 1342460A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
foot
support plate
support
heel
axis
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP03354018A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1342460A3 (en
Inventor
Louis Mathian
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP1342460A2 publication Critical patent/EP1342460A2/en
Publication of EP1342460A3 publication Critical patent/EP1342460A3/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
    • A61H1/02—Stretching or bending or torsioning apparatus for exercising
    • A61H1/0237—Stretching or bending or torsioning apparatus for exercising for the lower limbs
    • A61H1/0266—Foot
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2209/00—Devices for avoiding blood stagnation, e.g. Deep Vein Thrombosis [DVT] devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/16—Platforms for rocking motion about a horizontal axis, e.g. axis through the middle of the platform; Balancing drums; Balancing boards or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/04—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs
    • A63B23/08—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs for ankle joints
    • A63B23/085—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs for ankle joints by rotational movement of the joint in a plane substantially parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method allowing a user to activate the circulation of blood in his lower limbs by rotating at least one foot of the user.
  • the invention also relates to a device for implementing such a method.
  • the document US6217488 describes an apparatus making it possible to exert a tilting movement of the foot, in the sitting position.
  • the device has two swivel pedals.
  • a motor and transmission means between the motor and the pedals generate the pivoting of each pedal, along a determined pivot axis, disposed in the central part of the pedal and which merges with that of the feet.
  • the document EP0205018 describes an apparatus comprising a pair of pivoting pedals and means for driving the pedals.
  • the tilt axis of each pedal is placed under the hollow of the foot, so as to reproduce the movement of the foot when walking.
  • Document US 5468217 describes an apparatus for working the ankles and the calves.
  • the apparatus comprises a pair of pedals which can pivot independently, the pivot axis of each pedal being disposed at an arm extending the pedal perpendicularly.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a method allowing a user to activate the circulation of blood in his lower limbs effectively, promoting venous blood return, without having to provide any effort.
  • the object of the invention is also a device for implementing such a method, compact and easy to use.
  • a user activates the circulation of blood in his legs, by positioning the heel of his foot at a determined location and by alternately passing the front part of the foot from a high position to a low position, without take off the heel.
  • the foot pivots, thus, along an axis of tilting located substantially at the posterior end of the heel, so as to obtain passive stimulation of the tibio-astragalar joint intended to promote the circulation of blood in the legs and, in particular, the venous return of blood.
  • a device 1 makes it possible to implement such activation of the blood circulation.
  • the device 1 comprises a support intended to receive at least the front part of the foot 9 of the user ( Figures 2 and 3).
  • the support consists of a support plate 2 articulated around a transverse pivot axis s1, located in the central part of the support plate 2 and connected to a frame 3.
  • the support plate 2 has one end internal located in the frame 3 and an external end on which can be mounted, in free rotation, a first roller 4.
  • the first roller 4 has an axis of rotation s4 parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate. The free rotation of the first roller 4 is intended to avoid friction between the foot 9 and the support plate 2.
  • the device 1 also includes drive means intended to move the support plate 2 alternately from a high position (FIG. 3) to a low position (FIG. 2).
  • the support plate 2 is driven by a motor 8 via an operating mechanism.
  • This comprises a second roller 5, mounted in free rotation about an axis of rotation s2 and which bears on the internal end of the support plate 2.
  • the operating mechanism also comprises a crank 6, integral with 'An output shaft 7 of the motor 8, which may include a geared motor.
  • the axis of rotation s2 of the second roller 5, integral with the crank 6, is parallel to the axis of rotation s3 of the motor 8, itself orthogonal to the pivot axis s1.
  • the second roller 5 and the support plate 2 are shown in solid lines when the support plate is in the low position, corresponding to the rest position of the foot and in dotted lines when the support plate is in the high position.
  • the front part of the foot 9 of a user comes to bear on the external end of the support plate, as shown in FIG. ( Figure 3) is caused by the rotation of the motor 8 which drives down the second roller 5 and the inner end of the support plate 2 ( Figure 1).
  • the transition from the high position ( Figure 3) to the low position ( Figure 2) is preferably caused by the weight of the front part of the foot 9, located on the support plate 2 and this movement brings the second roller 5 upwards (figure 1).
  • the front part of the foot 9 thus passes alternately from a high position to a low position by pivoting the support plate 2, without taking off the heel.
  • the heel of the user's foot is disposed at a determined location on the ground, and preferably on a retaining tongue 10 secured to the chassis 3.
  • the device 1 also includes means for positioning the heel, to determine the location of the latter relative to the support plate 2.
  • the foot 9 pivots, then, along a pivot axis s5 located substantially at the rear end of the heel and parallel to the pivot axis s1 .
  • the positioning means can be of any type.
  • a stop holding the heel of the foot can be arranged on the retaining tab 10 or on the ground.
  • a representation of a footprint can also be drawn on the retaining tab 10 to indicate to the user how to position his foot.
  • the transmission between the motor 8 and the support plate 2 can be made by any type of suitable operating mechanism, for example rod-crank, cam, worm screw systems, etc.
  • the operating mechanism for example a cam system, drives the support plate only from its low position to its high position. Such a mechanism guarantees optimal security since it does not cause the lowering of the support plate, which prevents pinching or crushing when it descends.
  • the axis of rotation s3 of the motor and the axis of rotation s2 of the second roller 5 are parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate 2.
  • This mode of embodiment is more particularly suited to devices located in planes or trains.
  • the output shaft 7 of the motor 8 is parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate.
  • the operating mechanism of the support plate 2 is located under the internal end of the support plate 2. It comprises a cam 11 integral with the output shaft 7 of the motor 8.
  • the cam 11 is constituted by a disc whose axis of rotation is eccentric.
  • the contact between the cam 11 and the internal end of the support plate 2 is preferably made by means of an idler roller 12 in free rotation around an axis of rotation s6, integral with the internal end of the support plate 2.
  • the motor 8 drives the rotation of the cam 11, which moves the support plate 2 from the low position, shown in FIG. 7 to the high position shown in FIG. 8.
  • the transition from the high position ( Figure 8) to the low position ( Figure 7) is preferably caused by the weight of the front part of the foot 9 located on the support plate, thereby bringing the cam 11 towards the bottom.
  • This embodiment can advantageously be used for devices located in wheelchairs.
  • the cam 14 has a shape allowing a rise of the foot faster than the descent.
  • the rear part of the user's foot 9 is wedged by a stop 13 and the pivot axis s1 of the support plate is located at the external end of the support plate 2
  • the support plate 2 can comprise one or more first rollers 4, which avoid friction between the base 9 and the support plate 2.
  • the entire foot can be disposed on the support plate 2 and be held by a stop 13, integral with the external end of the support plate 2.
  • the device can also allow the simultaneous tilting of the two feet, if both feet rest on the support plate. It can also include two support plates activated so as to swing the feet alternately.
  • the support consists of a support sphere 17 on which the front part of the foot 9 is arranged.
  • the support sphere 17 is intended to pass alternately from a low position (FIG. 11) to a high position ( Figure 12), so as to rotate the foot along the tilt axis s5 located substantially at the rear end of the heel.
  • the heel is placed on the ground and is held by a stop 13.
  • a motor 8 and an operating mechanism causing the movement of the support sphere 17 are arranged in a housing 18 located in the ground 19.
  • the motor 8 drives a crank 6 secured to a second roller 5, itself secured to a jack 20.
  • the free end of the jack 20 is extended by the sphere d support 17.
  • the jack 20 periodically raises and lowers the support sphere 17.
  • the support sphere 17 In the low position (FIG. 11), the support sphere 17 is at ground level 19, while in position high, the support sphere 17 is above ground level 19.
  • This embodiment is particularly suitable for devices located in planes or trains, particularly long journeys generally requiring activation of blood circulation. It also has the advantage of being retractable and therefore compact.
  • a weight 21 held by a spring 22 can apply an elastic back pressure on the upper part of the foot 9, so as to allow the descent of the foot 9 faster than the rise and to increase the rate of return of the blood.
  • the foot 9 can also be arranged on a plate 23 in the form of a sole. The rear end of the plate 23 has a stop 13 holding the heel of the foot and inked in the ground 19.
  • the housing 18 comprising the operating mechanism and the motor 8 can also be placed on the ground 19, the foot 9 then being disposed on the housing 18 ( Figures 15 and 16).
  • the bearing sphere 17 and the actuator 20 can be respectively replaced by a bar 24 and a crank 25 integral with the roller 5 ( Figures 17 and 18).
  • the device according to the invention is preferably used in a seated position. It can be adapted on seats already comprising a static device such as travel chairs (plane, train ...) or wheelchairs. It can also be placed vertically for people lying down and, thus, used to improve user comfort in addition to existing treatments.
  • the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described above.
  • the device can be equipped with an automatic start-up system when the foot is placed on the support plate.
  • the device can also be equipped with a counter allowing to track the usage time.
  • the device may also include a motor control circuit, intended to vary the rate of tilting of the support plate to adapt it to the heart rate or the speed of circulation of the blood in the organs concerned.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
  • Massaging Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The procedure, designed to move the foot to increase blood circulation, uses a support (10) with a pivot for the heel of a person's foot (9) and a mechanism (1) that raises the front part of the foot in an alternating motion. The mechanism is container in a housing (3) and can be, for example, in the form of a motor that raises and lowers the end of a rocking plate (2) equipped with a roller that goes under the foot. In variants of the design the drive can incorporate a cam or crank mechanism.

Description

Domaine technique de l'inventionTechnical field of the invention

L'invention concerne un procédé permettant à un utilisateur d'activer la circulation du sang dans ses membres inférieurs en faisant pivoter au moins un pied de l'utilisateur.The invention relates to a method allowing a user to activate the circulation of blood in his lower limbs by rotating at least one foot of the user.

L'invention concerne également un dispositif de mise en oeuvre d'un tel procédé.The invention also relates to a device for implementing such a method.

État de la techniqueState of the art

Les personnes contraintes de rester assises ou immobiles pendant de longues périodes, ou les personnes sujettes aux phlébites, ont besoin d'activer la circulation du sang dans les jambes. Il leur est, en général, conseillé de marcher pour éviter ce problème ou d'utiliser des bas de contentions ou éventuellement de prendre des médicaments veino-toniques.People who are forced to sit or stand still for long periods of time, or people prone to phlebitis, need to activate the circulation of blood in the legs. They are, in general, advised to walk to avoid this problem or to use compression stockings or possibly to take vein-tonic medications.

II existe, également, des appareils permettant de stimuler le mouvement du pied et destinés à la musculation ou à la rééducation du pied ou de la cheville. Ces appareils sont généralement encombrants, ils ne permettent pas une circulation optimale du sang dans les jambes et ils obligent l'utilisateur à fournir d'importants efforts.There are also devices for stimulating the movement of the foot and for bodybuilding or reeducation of the foot or ankle. These devices are generally bulky, they do not allow optimal circulation of blood in the legs and they force the user to exert significant efforts.

Ainsi, le document US6217488 décrit un appareil permettant d'exercer un mouvement de basculement du pied, en position assise. L'appareil comporte deux pédales pivotantes. Un moteur et des moyens de transmission entre le moteur et les pédales génèrent le pivotement de chaque pédale, selon un axe de pivotement déterminé, disposé dans la partie centrale de la pédale et qui se confond avec celui des pieds.Thus, the document US6217488 describes an apparatus making it possible to exert a tilting movement of the foot, in the sitting position. The device has two swivel pedals. A motor and transmission means between the motor and the pedals generate the pivoting of each pedal, along a determined pivot axis, disposed in the central part of the pedal and which merges with that of the feet.

Le document EP0205018 décrit un appareil comprenant une paire de pédales pivotantes et des moyens d'entraînement des pédales. L'axe de basculement de chaque pédale est disposé sous le creux du pied, de manière à reproduire le mouvement du pied lors de la marche.The document EP0205018 describes an apparatus comprising a pair of pivoting pedals and means for driving the pedals. The tilt axis of each pedal is placed under the hollow of the foot, so as to reproduce the movement of the foot when walking.

Le document US5468217 décrit un appareil pour faire travailler les chevilles et les mollets. L'appareil comporte une paire de pédales pouvant pivoter indépendamment, l'axe de pivotement de chaque pédale étant disposé au niveau d'un bras prolongeant la pédale perpendiculairement.Document US 5468217 describes an apparatus for working the ankles and the calves. The apparatus comprises a pair of pedals which can pivot independently, the pivot axis of each pedal being disposed at an arm extending the pedal perpendicularly.

Objet de l'inventionSubject of the invention

L'invention a pour but un procédé permettant à un utilisateur d'activer la circulation du sang dans ses membres inférieurs de manière efficace, favorisant le retour veineux sanguin, sans pour autant avoir à fournir d'effort.The object of the invention is to provide a method allowing a user to activate the circulation of blood in his lower limbs effectively, promoting venous blood return, without having to provide any effort.

L'invention a également pour but un dispositif de mise en oeuvre d'un tel procédé, peu encombrant et facile à utiliser.The object of the invention is also a device for implementing such a method, compact and easy to use.

Selon l'invention, ce but est atteint par un procédé et un dispositif selon les revendications annexées.According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method and a device according to the appended claims.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres avantages et caractéristiques ressortiront plus clairement de la description qui va suivre de modes particuliers de réalisation de l'invention donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et représentés aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • La figure 1 est une représentation schématique d'un mode de réalisation d'un dispositif selon l'invention.
  • Les figures 2 et 3 montrent respectivement les positions basse et haute d'un support du dispositif selon la figure 1.
  • La figure 4 représente une variante du dispositif selon la figure 1.
  • La figure 5 est une représentation schématique d'un second mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention.
  • La figure 6 représente une variante du dispositif selon la figure 5
  • Les figures 7 et 8 montrent respectivement les positions basse et haute le support du dispositif selon la figure 5.
  • Les figures 9 et 10 illustrent une variante de réalisation des figures 7 et 8.
  • Les figures 11 et 12 montrent respectivement les positions basse et haute le support d'un troisième mode de réalisation d'un dispositif selon l'invention.
  • Les figures 13 à 18 illustrent des variantes de réalisation des figures 11 et 12.
Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the description which follows of particular embodiments of the invention given by way of nonlimiting examples and represented in the appended drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a device according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 respectively show the low and high positions of a support for the device according to FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 represents a variant of the device according to FIG. 1.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention.
  • Figure 6 shows a variant of the device according to Figure 5
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 respectively show the low and high positions of the support of the device according to FIG. 5.
  • Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an alternative embodiment of Figures 7 and 8.
  • Figures 11 and 12 respectively show the low and high positions of the support of a third embodiment of a device according to the invention.
  • Figures 13 to 18 illustrate alternative embodiments of Figures 11 and 12.

Description de modes particuliers de réalisation.Description of particular embodiments.

Selon l'invention, un utilisateur active la circulation du sang dans ses jambes, en positionnant le talon de son pied à un emplacement déterminé et en faisant passer, alternativement, la partie avant du pied d'une position haute à une position basse, sans décoller le talon. Le pied pivote, ainsi, selon un axe de basculement situé sensiblement à l'extrémité postérieure du talon, de manière à obtenir une stimulation passive de l'articulation tibio-astragalienne destinée à favoriser la circulation du sang dans les jambes et, en particulier, le retour veineux sanguin.According to the invention, a user activates the circulation of blood in his legs, by positioning the heel of his foot at a determined location and by alternately passing the front part of the foot from a high position to a low position, without take off the heel. The foot pivots, thus, along an axis of tilting located substantially at the posterior end of the heel, so as to obtain passive stimulation of the tibio-astragalar joint intended to promote the circulation of blood in the legs and, in particular, the venous return of blood.

Comme représenté aux figures 1 à 3, un dispositif 1 permet de mettre en oeuvre une telle activation de la circulation sanguine. Le dispositif 1 comporte un support destiné à recevoir au moins la partie avant du pied 9 de l'utilisateur (figures 2 et 3). Le support est constitué par une plaque d'appui 2 articulée autour d'un axe de pivotement s1 transversal, situé dans la partie centrale de la plaque d'appui 2 et relié à un châssis 3. La plaque d'appui 2 comporte une extrémité interne située dans le châssis 3 et une extrémité externe sur laquelle peut être monté, en rotation libre, un premier galet 4. Le premier galet 4 comporte un axe de rotation s4 parallèle à l'axe de pivotement s1 de la plaque d'appui. La rotation libre du premier galet 4 est destinée à éviter les frottements entre le pied 9 et la plaque d'appui 2.As shown in Figures 1 to 3, a device 1 makes it possible to implement such activation of the blood circulation. The device 1 comprises a support intended to receive at least the front part of the foot 9 of the user (Figures 2 and 3). The support consists of a support plate 2 articulated around a transverse pivot axis s1, located in the central part of the support plate 2 and connected to a frame 3. The support plate 2 has one end internal located in the frame 3 and an external end on which can be mounted, in free rotation, a first roller 4. The first roller 4 has an axis of rotation s4 parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate. The free rotation of the first roller 4 is intended to avoid friction between the foot 9 and the support plate 2.

Le dispositif 1 comporte également des moyens d'entraînement destinés à faire passer alternativement la plaque d'appui 2 d'une position haute (figure 3) à une position basse (figure 2). Sur la figure 1, la plaque d'appui 2 est entraînée par un moteur 8 par l'intermédiaire d'un mécanisme de manoeuvre. Celui-ci comporte un second galet 5, monté en rotation libre autour d'un axe de rotation s2 et qui prend appui sur l'extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui 2. Le mécanisme de manoeuvre comporte également une manivelle 6, solidaire d'un arbre de sortie 7 du moteur 8, qui peut comporter un motoréducteur. L'axe de rotation s2 du second galet 5, solidaire de la manivelle 6, est parallèle à l'axe de rotation s3 du moteur 8, lui-même orthogonal à l'axe de pivotement s1. Sur la figure 1, le second galet 5 et la plaque d'appui 2 sont représentés en traits pleins lorsque la plaque d'appui est en position basse, correspondant à la position de repos du pied et en traits pointillés lorsque la plaque d'appui est en position haute.The device 1 also includes drive means intended to move the support plate 2 alternately from a high position (FIG. 3) to a low position (FIG. 2). In FIG. 1, the support plate 2 is driven by a motor 8 via an operating mechanism. This comprises a second roller 5, mounted in free rotation about an axis of rotation s2 and which bears on the internal end of the support plate 2. The operating mechanism also comprises a crank 6, integral with 'An output shaft 7 of the motor 8, which may include a geared motor. The axis of rotation s2 of the second roller 5, integral with the crank 6, is parallel to the axis of rotation s3 of the motor 8, itself orthogonal to the pivot axis s1. In FIG. 1, the second roller 5 and the support plate 2 are shown in solid lines when the support plate is in the low position, corresponding to the rest position of the foot and in dotted lines when the support plate is in the high position.

De manière pratique, la partie avant du pied 9 d'un utilisateur vient en appui sur l'extrémité externe de la plaque d'appui, comme représenté à la figure 2. Le passage de la position basse (figure 2) à la position haute (figure 3) est provoqué par la rotation du moteur 8 qui entraîne, vers le bas, le second galet 5 et l'extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui 2 (figure 1). Le passage de la position haute (figure 3) à la position basse (figure 2) est, de préférence, provoqué par le poids de la partie avant du pied 9, située sur la plaque d'appui 2 et ce mouvement ramène le second galet 5 vers le haut (figure 1). La partie avant du pied 9 passe, ainsi, alternativement d'une position haute à une position basse grâce au pivotement de la plaque d'appui 2, sans décoller le talon.In practical terms, the front part of the foot 9 of a user comes to bear on the external end of the support plate, as shown in FIG. (Figure 3) is caused by the rotation of the motor 8 which drives down the second roller 5 and the inner end of the support plate 2 (Figure 1). The transition from the high position (Figure 3) to the low position (Figure 2) is preferably caused by the weight of the front part of the foot 9, located on the support plate 2 and this movement brings the second roller 5 upwards (figure 1). The front part of the foot 9 thus passes alternately from a high position to a low position by pivoting the support plate 2, without taking off the heel.

Le talon du pied de l'utilisateur est disposé à un emplacement déterminé, sur le sol, et de préférence, sur une languette de retenue 10 solidaire du châssis 3. Le dispositif 1 comporte, aussi, des moyens de positionnement du talon, pour déterminer l'emplacement de celui-ci par rapport à la plaque d'appui 2. Ainsi, le pied 9 pivote, alors, selon un axe de basculement s5 situé sensiblement à l'extrémité postérieure du talon et parallèle à l'axe de pivotement s1. Les moyens de positionnement peuvent être de tout type. A titre d'exemple, une butée maintenant le talon du pied peut être disposée sur la languette de retenue 10 ou sur le sol. Une représentation d'une empreinte de pied peut également être dessinée sur la languette de retenue 10 pour indiquer, à l'utilisateur, la manière de positionner son pied.The heel of the user's foot is disposed at a determined location on the ground, and preferably on a retaining tongue 10 secured to the chassis 3. The device 1 also includes means for positioning the heel, to determine the location of the latter relative to the support plate 2. Thus, the foot 9 pivots, then, along a pivot axis s5 located substantially at the rear end of the heel and parallel to the pivot axis s1 . The positioning means can be of any type. For example, a stop holding the heel of the foot can be arranged on the retaining tab 10 or on the ground. A representation of a footprint can also be drawn on the retaining tab 10 to indicate to the user how to position his foot.

La transmission entre le moteur 8 et la plaque d'appui 2 peut être faite par tout type de mécanisme de manoeuvre approprié, par exemple des systèmes bielle-manivelle, à came, à vis sans fin... Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, le mécanisme de manoeuvre, par exemple un système à came, entraîne la plaque d'appui uniquement de sa position basse à sa position haute. Un tel mécanisme garantit une sécurité optimale puisqu'il ne provoque pas l'abaissement de la plaque d'appui, ce qui évite un pincement ou un écrasement à la descente de celle -ci.The transmission between the motor 8 and the support plate 2 can be made by any type of suitable operating mechanism, for example rod-crank, cam, worm screw systems, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the operating mechanism, for example a cam system, drives the support plate only from its low position to its high position. Such a mechanism guarantees optimal security since it does not cause the lowering of the support plate, which prevents pinching or crushing when it descends.

Selon la variante de réalisation représentée à la figure 4, l'axe de rotation s3 du moteur et l'axe de rotation s2 du second galet 5 sont parallèles à l'axe de pivotement s1 de la plaque d'appui 2. Ce mode de réalisation est plus particulièrement adapté aux dispositifs situés dans les avions ou les trains.According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the axis of rotation s3 of the motor and the axis of rotation s2 of the second roller 5 are parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate 2. This mode of embodiment is more particularly suited to devices located in planes or trains.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 5, l'arbre de sortie 7 du moteur 8 est parallèle à l'axe de pivotement s1 de la plaque d'appui. Le mécanisme de manoeuvre de la plaque d'appui 2 est situé sous l'extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui 2. Il comprend une came 11 solidaire de l'arbre de sortie 7 du moteur 8. La came 11 est constituée par un disque dont l'axe de rotation est excentré. Le contact entre la came 11 et l'extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui 2 se fait, de préférence, par l'intermédiaire d'un galet fou 12 en rotation libre autour d'un axe de rotation s6, solidaire de l'extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui 2. Le moteur 8 entraîne la rotation de la came 11, qui fait passer la plaque d'appui 2 de la position basse, représentée à la figure 7 à la position haute représentée à la figure 8. Le passage de la position haute (figure 8) à la position basse (figure 7) est, de préférence, provoqué par le poids de la partie avant du pied 9 située sur la plaque d'appui, ramenant, ainsi, la came 11 vers le bas. Ce mode de réalisation peut-être avantageusement utilisé pour les dispositifs situés dans des fauteuils roulants.In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the output shaft 7 of the motor 8 is parallel to the pivot axis s1 of the support plate. The operating mechanism of the support plate 2 is located under the internal end of the support plate 2. It comprises a cam 11 integral with the output shaft 7 of the motor 8. The cam 11 is constituted by a disc whose axis of rotation is eccentric. The contact between the cam 11 and the internal end of the support plate 2 is preferably made by means of an idler roller 12 in free rotation around an axis of rotation s6, integral with the internal end of the support plate 2. The motor 8 drives the rotation of the cam 11, which moves the support plate 2 from the low position, shown in FIG. 7 to the high position shown in FIG. 8. The transition from the high position (Figure 8) to the low position (Figure 7) is preferably caused by the weight of the front part of the foot 9 located on the support plate, thereby bringing the cam 11 towards the bottom. This embodiment can advantageously be used for devices located in wheelchairs.

Dans la variante de la figure 6, la came 14 a une forme permettant une montée du pied plus rapide que la descente. On peut également prévoir un ressort 15 fixé à l'extrémité d'une manivelle 16, dont l'autre extrémité est solidaire de l'arbre 7 de sortie du moteur. L'entraînement de la manivelle 16 par le moteur lors du passage à la position basse comprime le ressort qui emmagasine de l'énergie et la restitue à la montée pour accélérer le mouvement lors d'un passage à la position haute.In the variant of Figure 6, the cam 14 has a shape allowing a rise of the foot faster than the descent. One can also provide a spring 15 attached to the end of a crank 16, the other end of which is integral with the motor output shaft 7. The driving of the crank 16 by the motor during the passage to the low position compresses the spring which stores energy and returns it on the rise to accelerate the movement during a passage to the high position.

Sur les figures 7 et 8, la partie arrière du pied 9 de l'utilisateur est calée par une butée 13 et l'axe de pivotement s1 de la plaque d'appui est situé à l'extrémité externe de la plaque d'appui 2. La plaque d'appui 2 peut comprendre un ou plusieurs premiers galets 4, qui évitent les frottements entre le pied 9 et la plaque d'appui 2.In FIGS. 7 and 8, the rear part of the user's foot 9 is wedged by a stop 13 and the pivot axis s1 of the support plate is located at the external end of the support plate 2 The support plate 2 can comprise one or more first rollers 4, which avoid friction between the base 9 and the support plate 2.

Dans les modes de réalisation décrits ci-dessus, seule la partie avant du pied est disposée sur la plaque d'appui, le talon reposant sur le sol ou sur une languette de retenue 10. Par contre, comme représenté sur les figures 9 et 10, la totalité du pied peut être disposée sur la plaque d'appui 2 et être maintenue par une butée 13, solidaire de l'extrémité externe de la plaque d'appui 2. Le dispositif peut également permettre le basculement simultané des deux pieds, si les deux pieds reposent sur la plaque d'appui. Il peut aussi comporter deux plaques d'appui activées de manière à faire balancer les pieds de façon alternées.In the embodiments described above, only the front part of the foot is disposed on the support plate, the heel resting on the ground or on a retaining tongue 10. By cons, as shown in Figures 9 and 10 , the entire foot can be disposed on the support plate 2 and be held by a stop 13, integral with the external end of the support plate 2. The device can also allow the simultaneous tilting of the two feet, if both feet rest on the support plate. It can also include two support plates activated so as to swing the feet alternately.

Sur les figures 11 et 12, le support est constitué par une sphère d'appui 17 sur laquelle est disposée la partie avant du pied 9. La sphère d'appui 17 est destinée à passer alternativement d'une position basse (figure 11) à une position haute (figure 12), de manière à faire pivoter le pied selon l'axe de basculement s5 situé sensiblement à l'extrémité postérieure du talon. Le talon est disposé sur le sol et il est maintenu par une butée 13. Un moteur 8 et un mécanisme de manoeuvre entraînant le mouvement de la sphère d'appui 17 sont disposés dans un boîtier 18 situé dans le sol 19. Le moteur 8 entraîne une manivelle 6 solidaire d'un second galet 5, lui-même solidaire d'un vérin 20. L'extrémité libre du vérin 20 est prolongée par la sphère d'appui 17.In FIGS. 11 and 12, the support consists of a support sphere 17 on which the front part of the foot 9 is arranged. The support sphere 17 is intended to pass alternately from a low position (FIG. 11) to a high position (Figure 12), so as to rotate the foot along the tilt axis s5 located substantially at the rear end of the heel. The heel is placed on the ground and is held by a stop 13. A motor 8 and an operating mechanism causing the movement of the support sphere 17 are arranged in a housing 18 located in the ground 19. The motor 8 drives a crank 6 secured to a second roller 5, itself secured to a jack 20. The free end of the jack 20 is extended by the sphere d support 17.

Ainsi, lors de la rotation du moteur 8, le vérin 20 soulève et abaisse périodiquement la sphère d'appui 17. En position basse (figure 11), la sphère d'appui 17 est au niveau du sol 19, tandis qu'en position haute, la sphère d'appui 17 est au-dessus du niveau du sol 19. Ce mode de réalisation est particulièrement adapté aux dispositifs situés dans les avions ou les trains, les voyages particulièrement longs nécessitant généralement une activation de la circulation sanguine. Il présente également l'avantage d'être rétractable et donc peu encombrant.Thus, during the rotation of the motor 8, the jack 20 periodically raises and lowers the support sphere 17. In the low position (FIG. 11), the support sphere 17 is at ground level 19, while in position high, the support sphere 17 is above ground level 19. This embodiment is particularly suitable for devices located in planes or trains, particularly long journeys generally requiring activation of blood circulation. It also has the advantage of being retractable and therefore compact.

Selon une variante représentée aux figures 13 et 14, un poids 21 maintenu par un ressort 22 peut appliquer une contre-pression élastique sur la partie supérieure du pied 9, de manière à permettre une descente du pied 9 plus rapide que la montée et à augmenter la vitesse de retour du sang. Le pied 9 peut également être disposé sur une plaque 23 en forme de semelle. L'extrémité postérieure de la plaque 23 comporte une butée 13 maintenant le talon du pied et encrée dans le sol 19. Le boîtier 18 comportant le mécanisme de manoeuvre et le moteur 8 peut également être disposé sur le sol 19, le pied 9 étant alors disposé sur le boîtier 18 (figures 15 et 16). De plus, la sphère d'appui 17 et le vérin 20 peuvent être respectivement remplacés par un barreau 24 et une manivelle 25 solidaire du galet 5 (figures 17 et 18).According to a variant shown in Figures 13 and 14, a weight 21 held by a spring 22 can apply an elastic back pressure on the upper part of the foot 9, so as to allow the descent of the foot 9 faster than the rise and to increase the rate of return of the blood. The foot 9 can also be arranged on a plate 23 in the form of a sole. The rear end of the plate 23 has a stop 13 holding the heel of the foot and inked in the ground 19. The housing 18 comprising the operating mechanism and the motor 8 can also be placed on the ground 19, the foot 9 then being disposed on the housing 18 (Figures 15 and 16). In addition, the bearing sphere 17 and the actuator 20 can be respectively replaced by a bar 24 and a crank 25 integral with the roller 5 (Figures 17 and 18).

Le dispositif, selon l'invention, est de préférence utilisé en position assise. Il peut être adapté sur des sièges comprenant déjà un dispositif statique comme les fauteuils de voyage (avion, train...) ou les fauteuils roulants. Il peut aussi être mis verticalement pour les personnes couchées et, ainsi, être utilisé pour améliorer le confort de l'utilisateur en complément des traitements existants. L'invention n'est pas limitée aux modes particuliers de réalisation décrits ci-dessus. En particulier, le dispositif peut être équipé d'un système de mise en route automatique, lorsque l'on place le pied sur la plaque d'appui. Le dispositif peut également être équipé d'un compteur permettant de suivre le temps d'utilisation. Le dispositif peut aussi comporter un circuit de contrôle du moteur, destiné à faire varier la cadence de basculement de la plaque d'appui pour l'adapter au rythme cardiaque ou à la vitesse de circulation du sang dans les organes concernés.The device according to the invention is preferably used in a seated position. It can be adapted on seats already comprising a static device such as travel chairs (plane, train ...) or wheelchairs. It can also be placed vertically for people lying down and, thus, used to improve user comfort in addition to existing treatments. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described above. In particular, the device can be equipped with an automatic start-up system when the foot is placed on the support plate. The device can also be equipped with a counter allowing to track the usage time. The device may also include a motor control circuit, intended to vary the rate of tilting of the support plate to adapt it to the heart rate or the speed of circulation of the blood in the organs concerned.

Claims (11)

Procédé permettant à un utilisateur d'activer la circulation du sang dans ses membres inférieurs en faisant pivoter au moins un pied (9) de l'utilisateur, procédé caractérisé en ce qu'il consiste à positionner le talon du pied (9) à un emplacement déterminé et faire passer, alternativement, la partie avant du pied d'une position haute à une position basse sans décoller le talon, de manière à faire pivoter le pied (9) selon un axe de basculement (s5) situé sensiblement à l'extrémité postérieure du talon.Method allowing a user to activate the circulation of blood in his lower limbs by pivoting at least one foot (9) of the user, method characterized in that it consists in positioning the heel of the foot (9) at a determined location and alternately move the front part of the foot from a high position to a low position without taking off the heel, so as to rotate the foot (9) along a tilting axis (s5) located substantially at the posterior end of the heel. Dispositif de mise en oeuvre du procédé selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte : - un support destiné à recevoir au moins la partie avant du pied (9), - des moyens d'entraînement destinés à faire passer alternativement ledit support d'une position haute à une position basse, lesdits moyens d'entraînement comportant des moyens de transmission entre un moteur (8) et le support, - des moyens de positionnement du talon pour que l'axe de basculement (s5) du pied (9) soit situé sensiblement à l'extrémité postérieure du talon. Device for implementing the method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: - a support intended to receive at least the front part of the foot (9), - drive means intended to alternate said support from a high position to a low position, said drive means comprising transmission means between a motor (8) and the support, - heel positioning means so that the pivot axis (s5) of the foot (9) is located substantially at the rear end of the heel. Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le support est constitué par une sphère d'appui (17).Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the support consists of a support sphere (17). Dispositif selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de transmission comportent un vérin (20).Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the transmission means comprise a jack (20). Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le support est constitué par un barreau (24).Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the support consists of a bar (24). Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le support est constitué par une plaque d'appui (2) pivotant autour d'un axe de pivotement (s1) transversal et solidaire d'un châssis (3).Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the support consists of a support plate (2) pivoting about a pivot axis (s1) transverse and integral with a frame (3). Dispositif selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que l'axe de pivotement (s1) de la plaque d'appui (2) est situé dans la partie centrale de la plaque d'appui (2).Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the pivot axis (s1) of the support plate (2) is located in the central part of the support plate (2). Dispositif selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que l'axe de pivotement (s1) de la plaque d'appui (2) est situé à une extrémité externe de la plaque d'appui (2).Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the pivot axis (s1) of the support plate (2) is located at an external end of the support plate (2). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 8, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de transmission se composent d'une manivelle (6) sur laquelle un galet (5) est monté en rotation libre autour d'un axe (s2) parallèle à l'axe de rotation (s3) du moteur (8), le galet (5) prenant appui sur une extrémité interne de la plaque d'appui (2), située à l'intérieur du châssis (3).Device according to any one of Claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the transmission means consist of a crank (6) on which a roller (5) is mounted in free rotation around a parallel axis (s2) to the axis of rotation (s3) of the motor (8), the roller (5) bearing on an internal end of the support plate (2), located inside the chassis (3). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 9, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de transmission comportent une came (11).Device according to any one of Claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the transmission means comprise a cam (11). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 10, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de positionnement du talon comportent une butée (13), une languette de retenue (10) ou une représentation d'une empreinte de pied.Device according to any one of Claims 2 to 10, characterized in that the heel positioning means comprise a stop (13), a retaining tab (10) or a representation of a footprint.
EP03354018A 2002-03-08 2003-02-26 Method for activating blood circulation in lower limbs of a user and device for carrying out this method Withdrawn EP1342460A3 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0202966 2002-03-08
FR0202966A FR2836834B1 (en) 2002-03-08 2002-03-08 DEVICE FOR ACTIVATING BLOOD CIRCULATION IN LOWER MEMBERS OF A USER

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EP1342460A2 true EP1342460A2 (en) 2003-09-10
EP1342460A3 EP1342460A3 (en) 2003-12-03

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Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2864764A1 (en) * 2004-01-06 2005-07-08 Pierre Dupuy Human vascular system stimulating device for e.g. aged person, has case provided with gear motor driving two pedals provided with holes crossed by carriage that includes two massage rollers which are in support under woven fabric web
WO2006070274A1 (en) * 2004-12-30 2006-07-06 Sancho Serrats Juan Andres Apparatus for the oscillation of the foot and to activate the blood stream
CN109363818A (en) * 2018-12-07 2019-02-22 徐会法 A kind of traction frame for children orthopedics

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EP0205018A2 (en) 1985-06-14 1986-12-17 Samuel Heaton Leg exerciser
US5468217A (en) 1994-03-07 1995-11-21 Prevent Products Inc. Lower extremity phlebo pump
US6217488B1 (en) 1995-07-31 2001-04-17 Peter S. Bernardson Lower extremity rehabilitation and toning exercise apparatus method

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US3318304A (en) * 1963-09-18 1967-05-09 Gurewich Vladimir Mechanical device for reducing blood clotting in legs

Patent Citations (3)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0205018A2 (en) 1985-06-14 1986-12-17 Samuel Heaton Leg exerciser
US5468217A (en) 1994-03-07 1995-11-21 Prevent Products Inc. Lower extremity phlebo pump
US6217488B1 (en) 1995-07-31 2001-04-17 Peter S. Bernardson Lower extremity rehabilitation and toning exercise apparatus method

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2864764A1 (en) * 2004-01-06 2005-07-08 Pierre Dupuy Human vascular system stimulating device for e.g. aged person, has case provided with gear motor driving two pedals provided with holes crossed by carriage that includes two massage rollers which are in support under woven fabric web
WO2006070274A1 (en) * 2004-12-30 2006-07-06 Sancho Serrats Juan Andres Apparatus for the oscillation of the foot and to activate the blood stream
CN109363818A (en) * 2018-12-07 2019-02-22 徐会法 A kind of traction frame for children orthopedics

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1342460A3 (en) 2003-12-03
FR2836834B1 (en) 2014-03-28
FR2836834A1 (en) 2003-09-12

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