EP3256018A1

EP3256018A1 - Pivoting grip for a pole

Info

Publication number: EP3256018A1
Application number: EP16714952.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Frédéric Dubois
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-02-09
Filing date: 2016-02-08
Publication date: 2017-12-20
Also published as: FR3032333A1; WO2016128628A1; FR3032333B1

Abstract

The device according to the invention improves and significantly optimizes the pressure of the hand on the pole and makes arm work easier in activities requiring poles or sticks. The device according to the invention consists of an ergonomic grip (1) designed to pivot on the end of the pole (2) through an angle of excursion of between 90° and 160° via a pivot pin (3). The grip (1) is formed of 1 or 2 two lateral bearing surfaces allowing the thumb to be positioned on one side (4), and the index and middle finger to be positioned on the other side (5) of the grip; a wrist strap (6) and a rigid shoulder (10) under the palm of the hand complete the bearing surfaces. The pivot pin (3) is situated at the level of the thumb and middle finger in order to provide a firm and balanced pressure of the hand on the pivot pin (3) and allow the hand and the grip to pivot naturally at the end of the pole. The invention relates to a ski pole, a walking pole or a trekking pole.

Description

PIVOTING STICK HANDLE

DESCRIPTION

The invention relates to a stick handle, intended in particular for Nordic ski poles, classic cross-country skiing or skating, ski mountaineering, hiking, nordic walking or Nordic walking, roller skiing, running.

The device according to the invention consists of an ergonomic handle (1) pivoting on the end of the stick (2) by an axis (3). The handle (1) is formed to have one or two lateral support zones for positioning the thumb on one side (4), the middle finger and the index finger on the other side (5); a strap (6) and a rigid spoiler (10) under the palm of the hand supplements these supports in order to effectively transmit the force of the arm and the hand to the stick. Axis (3) is placed

substantially between the thumb and middle finger to provide a firm and balanced support of the hand on the shaft (3) during the entire thrust phase on the stick and allow a natural tilt of the hand on the end of the stick according to a deflection angle between 90 ° and 160 °. The axis (3) is placed in the axis of the stick (2) and thus transmits all the energy of the thrust force of the arm and the hand. A spring or elastic member (7) tends to return the handle (1) to its initial position and retains the stick when the arm returns to the front. A stop (8) makes it possible to adjust the inclination of the handle relative to the axis of the stick when it is in its initial rest position.

The device according to the invention improves and optimizes the transmission of the thrust force of the arm and the hand on the stick by limiting energy losses and facilitates the work of arms in activities requiring sticks or canes.

In the prior art, the thrust force of the arm on the stick is transmitted by a wrist strap attached to the hand of the user secured permanently or not to the handle of the stick. In the device of the invention WO2006084403, this role is provided by a flexible connection attached to the glove or a removable wrist strap of the handle. In the device presented by FR2655871, a Velcro strap provides the connection between the handle and the hand. In all these devices, the thrust of the arm and the hand on the stick is transmitted by a strap or a flexible element providing adjustment qualities, adjustment or practical advantages of installation. These techniques have disadvantages when pushing on the stick because the hand tilts forward by winding on the strap or the equivalent device by transmitting the entire force of the arm thrust on the stick by this flexible element . All these devices result in

tilting of the hand, of shifting and of putting in cantilever the force of thrust of the arm with respect to the axis of the stick. This offset overhang strongly solicits the articulation of the wrist and the hand by creating an indirect support which generates

consecutively a loss of energy in the force transmitted to the baton. This effect is particularly noticeable in the context of a sporting practice. This loss of energy is also accentuated by the fact that the transmission elements of this force are ensured by textile materials which can offer a certain flexibility

(strap, gloves, strap, velcro, textile link ...).

FR2366040 discloses a device consisting of a separate handle in two parts, the rear portion is articulated on the front part, itself attached to the stick. The purpose of the device is to improve the guidance of the stick and has no element of efficiency to improve the transmission of the thrust force of the arm on the stick. In this device, the placement of the joint on the top of the The handle accentuates the offset between the force of the pushing of the arm and the axis of the stick, which consequently increases the energy loss in the pushing force and generates muscle fatigue. the hand and wrist especially in the context of a sporting practice.

US 6,460,891 B1 discloses a ski pole whose handle is connected to the baton at its lower end by a pivotal connection to reduce the wrist flexion of the user.

US 6,644,328 B1 and WO 90/11031 A1 each disclose a ski or step stick comprising a mechanism for adjusting the inclination of the handle relative to the stick located between the lower end of the handle and the stick.

GB 2 295 086 A discloses a walking aid stick in which the lower end of the handle is connected to the stick by a pivotal connection. A return spring tends to bring the stick forward. The use of the stick is thus facilitated.

KR 100 991 485 B1 discloses a walking or running stick comprising a gripper-shaped handle comprising a first element integral with the stick and a second element articulated at its upper end to the first element. The first and second elements are grasped by the user's hand. An elastic return means tends to separate the first and second elements. This tends to bring the stick forward. The use of the stick is thus facilitated.

EP 2 868 223 discloses a ski or walking stick whose handle comprises a cavity in which is housed the upper end of the stick. The connection between the handle and the stick allows a slight translation of the handle along the axis of the stick and a slight inclination of the handle relative to the axis of the stick. This makes it possible to absorb the shocks and the small movements in rotation of the stick.

The device according to the invention solves the problems of the prior art by significantly improving the thrust of the arm and the hand on the stick via the handle (1) which pivoting on the end of the stick on an axis (3) allows a natural tilting of the hand by transmitting

directly the efforts of pushing the hand continuously. The device makes it possible to concentrate the effort of the arms and the hand at the axis (3) during the entire duration of the thrust phase on the stick on a regular basis. The device according to the invention eliminates any offset in cantilever of the thrust force of the arm by naturally aligning the wrist and the hand and transmitting directly all the thrust force in the stick by the axis (3) . All thrust energy is thus transmitted directly in the axis of the stick without loss of energy from a strap or a more or less flexible connection as is the case in the previous devices. The device consecutively improves the guidance of the stick and its control, especially in techniques requiring high frequencies.

The device according to the invention is particularly suitable for Nordic skiing or an activity where the thrusting role of the upper arms and upper body is paramount, especially in the evolution of modern techniques of practice favoring power and performance. frequency of movement.

In order to optimize the transmission of the thrust force of the arm and the hand, the handle (1) may comprise ergonomic shapes with 1 or more bearing surfaces on either side of its longitudinal axis. These surfaces allow positioning of the thumb on one side (4), forefinger and middle finger on the other side (5) providing firm supports for transmitting the pushing force of the arm and the hand in the handle at the pivot axis (3). These bearing surfaces complete the device of the invention by optimizing the effect of the pivoting of the handle on the stick and remain optional and adaptable according to the morphology of the user and the techniques of practice envisaged with the stick. Thus the support of the thumb can be privileged on that of the major to allow a better

adaptability of the device or make it more versatile.

The axis (3) is judiciously placed between the thumb and middle finger, substantially at the level of the lateral bearing surfaces (4 and 5), so that the hand naturally switches on the end of the stick during the phase of thrust by providing a firm and balanced support of the "fork" represented by the thumb on one side, the index and the middle finger of the other. This support concentrates the thrust force through the axis (3) and optimizes the transmission of energy between the hand and the stick.

The device according to the invention allows the handle (1) to pivot on the stick (2) with a deflection angle of between 90 ° and 160 ° to accompany the range of movement of the hand. A stop (11), possibly adjustable or interchangeable, adapted to limit this movement can be integrated into the device. This stop may comprise a damping system providing progressiveness to the limit of movement of the handle. This damping device can combine an elastic effect to bring the handle back to its initial position.

The device may comprise an adjustable strap (6) adapted to rest the lower part of the palm of the hand and the wrist. The strap has a flexible surface parallel to the lower part of the palm, it is fixed to the body of the handle in its lower part and connected to the upper part by one or more straps provided with a control system. The strap reinforces the support of the hand during the push and provides a role of holding the handle in the hand of the user during the release phase during the return of the arm forward. The strap may comprise an elastic link ensuring its holding in position and solidarisant the hand and the handle. A restraint link connected to the user's wrist can fulfill an anti-loss role in a simplified version of the device.

The strap can be replaced or supplemented by a rigid spoiler (10) forming a bearing surface for the lower part of the palm of the hand. This spoiler is adjustable in height or interchangeable to adapt to different user morphologies.

Due to its design, the device according to the invention involves a handle for the right hand and a handle for the left hand.

A spring (7) or an elastic element positioned at the pivot axis (3) is adapted to return the handle to its initial position after the thrust phase. This spring element has a retention and control function of the stick when returning the arm forward. The spring or this elastic return element can be removable, adjustable or interchangeable.

A stop (8), adjustable, removable or interchangeable, is positioned between the stick and the handle to adjust the inclination of the initial position of the handle at rest relative to the axis of the stick. This adjustment optimizes the position of the hand and wrist by aligning them in the extension of the forearm from the beginning of the push phase on the stick.

The device according to the invention is completed with an ergonomic shape on the upper part of the handle (9) matching the top of the hand, represented by the thumb and forefinger, whose function is to guarantee the holding of the handle in the user's hand when returning the arm forward. This shape can be more or less enveloping and can be completed by a strap encircling the index and middle finger on one side, the thumb on the other side of the handle. These systems can complement each other or be considered independently.

The device may include a locking system of the handle in its initial position against the stick temporarily preventing its pivoting. This function is suitable for practices or techniques where pivoting is not desirable such as ski descents or running.

According to the embodiments, the handle may be one-piece or made of several assembled parts, molded of plastic, polymer or composite materials. According to the embodiments, the handle is formed with a "U" profile on the back of the stick. This "U" shape is adapted to receive a pivot axis, or any equivalent element, allowing the handle to swing on the end of the stick. The pivot angle of the handle on the stick is between 90 ° and 160 °. The front portion of the handle body located under the pivot axis is fully disengaged to allow this movement.

According to the embodiments, the handle may have bearing surfaces for the thumb on one side, the index and the middle finger on the other side. A surface formed by a rigid spoiler at the bottom of the handle provides support to the lower part of the palm of the hand. According to the embodiments, these ergonomic supports can be an integral part of a one-piece handle or be removable and adjustable elements secured to the handle by a mechanical connection. These supports can receive a foam pad or a flexible coating. According to the embodiments, the handle may comprise a single support surface for the thumb and an adjustable strap adapted to grip the bottom of the palm of the hand and the wrist securely solidarisant the hand and the handle. According to the embodiments, the strap is made in a semi-rigid material combining a firm support to the "cutting edge" of the hand and having an elastic effect facilitating the passage of the hand to the installation of the device by the user. A quick adjustment system of the hand strap of the user completes the device.

According to the embodiments, a bore is arranged to put a pivot axis passing through the stick and the handle. Any other device for creating a pivot between the handle and the stick, removable or not, can provide this function in the context of the device according to the invention.

According to the embodiments, the device must be adapted symmetrically for the right hand and for the left hand. The device can have several sizes to adapt to different user morphologies or have adjustment systems and adjustment.

The upper part of the handle may have a shape more or less

wraparound to hold the thumb and forefinger in position.

According to the embodiment and the size of the user, the dimensions of the body of the handle (1) are of the order of 80 to 130 mm in height, 40 to 90 mm in width at the level of the lateral support zones, 30 to 50 mm deep.

The support zone for the thumb is located between 25 and 45 mm from the top of the handle, the support zone for the forefinger and middle finger between 45 and 60 mm from the top of the handle.

The angle of movement of the handle on the stick is between 90 ° and 160 ° with or without stop.

The axis is represented by a mechanical pin, a screw, a bolt or any element ensuring the pivoting function. The axis of the pivot is provided with sliding elements so that the device remains mechanically reliable in intensive use by limiting the wear of the joint.

The pivot axis is, depending on the method of manufacture and the size of the user, between 25 and 50 mm from the top of the handle to balance the pushing force of the hand while allowing a natural tilting of the hand. hand on the end of the stick without fatigue of the wrist, hand or forearm.

The pivot axis at the stick can be made directly into the end of the stick with a mechanically reliable device to limit the wear of the joint.

According to the embodiment, the pivot axis and the geometric axis of the handle is adapted to position the ergonomic shapes of the handle so as to have a natural positioning of the hand relative to the pivot axis of the handle. handle by bringing it closer to the axis of movement of the user. This angle is between 0 and 45 ° depending on the destination of the stick and the planned practice. According to one embodiment, the pivot axis (3) can be made in an insert on the end of the stick by gluing or assembly. This solution has the advantage of being able to adapt the device to any stick.

According to one embodiment an adjustable wrist strap wrapping the lower part of the palm of the hand and enclosing the wrist can be attached to the handle to complete the bearing surfaces of the handle. The strap increases the effectiveness of the transmission of the pushing force of the arm and solidarises the hand and the handle. A removable elastic link between the strap and the handle can be provided to hold the strap in position and secure the hand and the handle.

According to one embodiment, a rigid spoiler (10), adjustable, interchangeable or of different sizes, provides a bearing surface for the lower part of the palm of the hand. This spoiler replaces or supplements a strap. In the configuration without a wrist strap, a "leash" type restraint link, elastic or not, will prevent the user from letting the stick escape when the hand is released at the end of the pushing phase.

According to one embodiment this anti-loss function can be provided by one or more parts of "Velcro" between the glove and the handle, positioned in the region of the palm of the hand.

In another method of manufacture, the holding in position of the hand in the handle can be provided by one or more magnets in the handle at the palm of the hand and one or more metal parts sewn or glued face to face on the glove. Magnets and metal parts can be reversed.

According to one embodiment, adjustable straps can hold the index finger and the middle finger on the outer face of the handle, the thumb on the inner part. These straps provide a role of maintaining in position the fingers and retaining the stick while forming lateral bearing surfaces for the thumb and middle finger on the handle.

According to the embodiments, a return spring positioned at the pivot axis of the handle makes it possible to retain the stick when the arm is returned to the front and to improve its control and guidance. This spring can be replaced by an elastomeric elastic element compressed by tilting the top of the handle on the end of the stick when tilting the hand by returning the handle to the initial position.

According to a method of manufacture, a stop is disposed between the handle and the stick. This stop may be adjustable, removable or interchangeable to adapt to the practice and technique of use of the stick or the morphology of the user. This stop makes it possible to adjust the inclination of the handle relative to the stick and to position the hand in an optimal position of support from the plant of the stick by aligning the hand and the wrist in the extension of the forearm.

According to one embodiment, the movement of the handle on the stick can be limited by a stop (11), adjustable or interchangeable. This stop for limiting the movement of the handle may comprise a damping or elastic system participating in the return of the handle against the stick.

According to the embodiments, a locking system of the handle against the stick can be adapted to the device. This system, manipulable by the user, has a temporary function according to the practices and techniques of use of the stick. This function can be provided by an easily manipulable mechanical connection such as a snap ring connecting the stick to the bottom of the handle or any other system of pin or removable hooking.

Figure 1 shows the device according to the invention with the handle (1) - here for the right hand - articulated on the stick (2) by the axis (3). The lateral support zones on either side of the thumb grip on one side (4), the forefinger and the middle finger of the other (5), the device is provided with a strap (6 ).

Figure 2 shows a side view of the handle (without strap) in its pivoting movement about the axis (3). The figure shows the stop (8) between the stick and the handle in its initial rest position.

Figure 3 shows the device according to the invention (without strap) in the left hand of the user with the thumb support area (4).

Figure 4 shows a rear view of the handle (without wrist strap) with the lateral support zones for the thumb (4) and for the middle finger (5), the pivot axis (3) and the thumb stop and the index at the top of the handle (9).

FIG. 5 shows a front view of the handle with the lateral support forms (4 and 5), a sleeve piece at the end of the stick allowing the pivot axis (3) to pass through and a return spring of the handle (7).

Figure 6 shows the device with a spoiler support for the lower part of the palm of the hand (10) replacing or in addition to the strap.

Figure 7 shows another embodiment with a bearing surface for the thumb (4) and a stop (11) adapted to limit the movement of the handle on the stick.

Figure 8 shows the handle provided with an adjustable strap (6) adapted to grip the wrist with the bottom of the palm of the hand.

Claims

1 - Ski, walking or running pole, comprising a stick (2) and a handle (1) formed with a "U" profile on the rear part of the stick and open on the front part, adapted to receive a pivot (3), allowing the handle (1) to swing on the end of the stick (2) at an angle between 90 ° and 160 °.

2 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that the axis (3) of pivoting of the body of the handle (1) is positioned at the level of the thumb and middle finger.

3 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle body (1) has 2 bearing surfaces on either side of the axis of the handle, ergonomically shaped for the right hand or the left hand, for positioning the thumb of one side (4) of the handle body, the index finger and middle finger on the other side (5) of the handle body.

4 - Ski, walking or running pole according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises an adjustable strap (6), fixed on the body of the handle (1) at the palm of the hand and connected at the top of the handle, suitable for wrapping the lower part of the palm of the hand and the wrist.

5 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle comprises an ergonomic spoiler and rigid (10) disposed in its lower part adapted to create an additional bearing surface to the lower part of the palm of the hand.

6 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1 characterized in that it comprises a spring (7) or an elastic device, interchangeable or adjustable, adapted to bring the handle back to its initial position.

7 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a stop (8), removable, interchangeable or adjustable, placed between the handle body and the stick.

8 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a bearing zone formed by a semi-rigid and adjustable strap adapted to grip the index and middle finger connected to the top of the handle.

9 - ski pole, walking or racing according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a temporary locking system and manipulated by the user to block the pivoting of the handle on the stick.

10 - Ski, walking or running pole according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one of the stick retention systems and holds in the position of the hand in the handle among the group comprising a wrist strap holding one or more fingers, a combination of magnets and parts

between the glove and the handle, and an assembly of

"Velcro" between the glove and the handle.