EP3644934B1

EP3644934B1 - Cover for a mobility aid handgrip

Info

Publication number: EP3644934B1
Application number: EP18749542.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Marie VAN DEN BROECK
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-06-29
Filing date: 2018-06-29
Publication date: 2022-06-01
Anticipated expiration: 2038-06-29
Also published as: ES2922007T3; EP3644934A1; BE1024930B1; WO2019003200A1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a cover to be fitted on a handgrip of an aid for people with limited mobility. The invention relates to the field of comfort-enhancing accessories. In particular, the invention relates to an accessory for improved ease of use and increased independence.

BACKGROUND

Mobility aids are widely known. These are aids that aim to reduce or overcome patients' mobility problems. The aid should offer extra stability, support and safety.
Handgrips play an important role in this. They serve for taking hold of the aid. Often a lot of weight is placed on them for supporting a person. The handgrip of a mobility aid is typically made of a hard plastic or of wood. The hardness of the material is advantageous in many ways because it allows robust and frequent use. However, it is hard and often sweaty in the user's hand.
In the case of mobility aids such as crutches there is the additional problem that a pair of them has to be used. If one of them is dropped, it is difficult for a person with limited mobility to pick up the dropped one. In order to rectify this, the use of magnets has been proposed, as in for example GB2468897 , DE202007010182 and WO 2008/147285 . The use of magnets was introduced to prevent that crutches fall. In this way they may also be placed against each other.
GB2468897 describes magnets incorporated in a cover. This limited the force of the magnet. In DE202007010182 the magnet is inserted in a recess at the end of the handgrip. This proposal also has to contend with limited magnetic force on the sides. WO 2008/147285 describes a cover for a handgrip of an invalid crutch that comprises a magnetic body. No information is provided concerning the material used, or the manner of fitting the cover.
DE 202 14 635 discloses crutches with covered handgrips. A magnet is positioned on or in the handgrip cover. The cover is made of elastic textile material. No measures are provided against hard surfaces. The mobility impaired user has difficulties to remove the cover in a way it can be re-used.
DE 202 14 635 discloses covers for a handgrip of a sports racket. It discloses the use of a flange and plastic disc. A mobility impaired user does not have both hands available to manipulate the cover from and onto the plastic disc. No measures are provide against the disadvantages of hard surfaces, such as pain and blister formation.
There is consequently a need for further alternatives and improvements. These need to take into account the particular requirements that are imposed on mobility aids, namely to take into account the user's limited mobility. This rules out complex manoeuvres.
The present invention aims to provide a solution for one or more of the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aim of the invention is to provide a solution that improves the user comfort and functionality of handgrips of mobility aids. The invention aims to improve the independence of users of mobility aids.
The invention aims to provide a solution for the problems associated with hard and/or sweaty surfaces of handgrips on mobility aids.
The present invention provides a cover configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably a handgrip of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, comprising: an elongated body extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated, tubular body for receiving the aforementioned handgrip and a second end located opposite the first end that is open or closed, characterized in that the elongated body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body is provided at the periphery of the first end with a flange for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body wherein the length of the elongated body decreases or increases, respectively.
Introduction of the flange has the advantage that the cover can be rolled up without requiring complex manoeuvres. Rolling up can be performed in the absence of a hard backing. The elasticity range selected ensures on the one hand that the material can be rolled up somewhat, for fitting the cover over the handgrip. On the other hand the elasticity is not excessive, so that the cover does not come off the handgrip too easily.
In a preferred embodiment the invention provides a patch configured to be provided on a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or the like, characterized in that it comprises a body made of a compressible material and the body is provided at least in the longitudinal direction with an adhesive for adhesion to the handgrip. The body is preferably T-shaped or figure-of-eight shaped or wing-shaped. The adhesion is preferably reversible, preferably repeatedly reversible. According to an embodiment of the invention the patch is preferably provided for combining with a removable cover. Adjustment may consist of adapting the thickness of the patch to the thickness of the cover in order to offer the user sufficient comfort and reduce or prevent blister formation.
Providing a body made of a compressible material ensures a less hard surface and reduces the risk of blisters. The T-shape ensures that there is soft support for the palm of a user's hand. It also ensures that the handgrip covering is not needlessly thick. This is beneficial to user comfort.
In a preferred embodiment the patch is wing-shaped and configured for use on a mobility aid with an ergonomic handgrip. An ergonomic handgrip has an anatomically preformed grip for supporting the palm of the hand. This handgrip ensures better weight distribution and ensures less loading of the hand. Comfort may be increased further by fitting a wing-shaped patch on the anatomically preformed grip. The design of the patch preferably follows the contours of the anatomically preformed grip. By following the contours of the grip, no extra pressure points are caused. This ensures less blister formation for the users.
In a further aspect, the invention provides a method for manufacturing a removable cover configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, comprising the steps of:

providing an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55,
injection moulding of the elastic material in a mould to obtain an elongated body extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated body for receiving the aforementioned handgrip and a second end located opposite the first end that is open or closed, and to provide the periphery of the first end of the elongated body with a flange for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body wherein the length of the elongated body decreases or increases, respectively,
optionally configuring the closed end for receiving a magnetic body with which the crutch or the like may be attached temporarily to a magnetic material or to material that is attracted by the magnetic body.

Selection of a Shore A elasticity of 25-55 has the advantage that the material is not so smooth that the cover of a handgrip slides off and is difficult to produce (Shore number too low). On the other hand the material is strong enough to be stretched somewhat and to be tightened after fitting over a handgrip. A number of Neoprene materials tested were unsuitable. They did not stretch enough and did not tighten afterwards.
In an additional aspect, the invention provides a use of a removable cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, preferably in combination with a patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and/or a magnetic body according to a preferred embodiment of the invention as a customizing means and comfort-increasing accessory of a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably for a handgrip of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid.
A cover according to an embodiment of the invention is easily adaptable for personalizing and cheering-up a handgrip, for example using coloured silicone. In combination with a patch, it prevents or reduces a user's pain. Additionally, combination with a magnetic body may provide extra comfort.
The invention also provides a kit of components comprising a cover according to an embodiment of the invention and instructions for removably fitting the components of the kit over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid. Preferably the kit comprises a patch according to an embodiment of the invention and/or a magnet.
Provision of a kit has the advantage that a user can fit and position the patch according to the size of his or her hand and according to the length of the handgrip. It allows individual adjustment.
In a final aspect, the invention provides a method for removably fitting a cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention over a handgrip of a mobility aid, comprising the steps of:

providing a cover made of an elastic material according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
rolling up the cover over the flange provided at the open end;
fitting the rolled-up cover over a handgrip of a mobility aid;
unrolling the cover, thereby obtaining a handgrip of the mobility aid provided with the cover.

The method has the advantage that it is very easy to perform and can be repeated several times.
In a very last aspect, the invention provides a mobility aid comprising a handgrip fitted with a cover according to an embodiment of the invention. The handgrip is preferably provided in the longitudinal direction with a patch according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a body made of a compressible material and attached to the body by means of adhesive provided in the longitudinal direction of the patch body. Additionally, or as an alternative, the cover may be provided with a magnetic body according to an embodiment of the invention inserted in a chamber provided at the closed end of the elongated body of the cover with the shape of the magnetic body and provided with a round, oval or slot-shaped opening for insertion and form-fit reception of the magnetic body in the chamber. The cover, the patch and the magnet chamber/magnet form accessories that are advantageous for increasing the independence of the users of a mobility aid. The accessories provide reduction of pain.
Further preferred embodiments are elaborated in the dependent claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 shows a cross-section through the cover shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a schematic representation of another preferred embodiment according to the invention, this time with an extra chamber for receiving a magnetic body and with a logo at the closed end. Figure 3a shows a cross-section along the longitudinal axis. Figure 3b shows a top view at the distal end. Figure 3c is a detail drawing of the rolling-up flange at the open end of the cover. Figure 3d is a detail drawing of the top of the cover.
Figure 4 is a schematic representation of yet another preferred embodiment according to the invention. The access to the chamber is made as an antechamber with a round shape. The diameter of the antechamber is smaller than the chamber for receiving the magnetic body, as can be seen in the detail drawing in Figure 4f. Figure 4a shows a cross-section along the longitudinal axis. Figure 4b shows a detail drawing of the top of the cover. Figure 4c is a detail drawing of the rolling-up flange at the open proximal end of the cover. Figure 4d is a detail drawing of the top of the cover. Figure 4e shows a cross-section through the chamber and antechamber. Figure 4f shows a front view of the antechamber along the inside of the cover.
Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Figure 5a shows a top view. Figure 5b shows a side view. Figure 5c is a detail drawing of the vertical, rounded flange.
Figure 6 is a schematic representation of another patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The leg parallel to the longitudinal axis was made somewhat larger relative to the leg of the T-shape transverse to the longitudinal axis, compared to the design shown in Figure 5. The other leg is also somewhat longer.
Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a use according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Figure 7a is a schematic representation of a handgrip provided with a cover with magnetic body and patch, according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless defined otherwise, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as generally understood by a skilled person in the field to which the present invention relates. Moreover, definitions of the terms are included for better understanding of the description of the present invention.
As used here, the following terms have the following meanings:
"A" and "the" as used here refer both to the singular and to the plural, unless the context indicates otherwise. As an example, "a compartment" refers to one or more than one compartment.
"About" as used here, which refers to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a duration and the like, is intended to include variations of ±20% or less, preferably ±10% or less, more preferably ±5% or less, even more preferably ±1% or less, and even more preferably still ±0.1% or less from the specified value, in so far as such variations are suitable for being performed in the invention described. It will, however, be clear that the value to which the term "about" relates is itself also described specifically. "Comprise", "comprising" and "comprises" and "consisting of", as used here, are synonymous with "contain", "containing" or "contains" and are inclusive or open terms that specify the presence of what follows e.g. a component and the presence of supplementary, unstated components, characteristics, elements, parts, steps, which are well known in the prior art or are described therein, and not excluded.
The statement of numerical ranges by end points comprises all numbers and fractions that are included within that range, as well as said end points.
The invention provides a solution for the problem of improving the user comfort and functionality of handgrips, especially those of mobility aids. The invention provides a solution for the problems with hard, smooth surfaces of these handgrips, which often give rise to blister formation on users' hands. Extra functionality may be provided for users with mobility problems. The operations that are required for fitting the cover are very simple.
In a first aspect, the invention provides a cover configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, comprising:

an elongated body extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated, tubular body for receiving the aforementioned handgrip and a second end located opposite the first end that is open or closed,
characterized in that the elongated body is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body is provided, at the periphery of the first end, with a flange for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body wherein the length of the elongated body decreases or increases, respectively.

The term "cover" as used herein means that which is fitted along something; that which serves to envelop. Synonyms for this are sleeve, casing, sheath, housing.
The cover of the invention is intended to be fitted as a housing of a handgrip, preferably as a housing of a handgrip of a mobility aid. Owing to the selected elasticity of the material, the cover will clasp the handgrip after fitting. The elasticity that gave sufficient elasticity and clasping for the present application is situated between 25 and 55 Shore A. Preferably a Shore A value is selected between 28 and 48, more preferably between 29 and 45, most preferably between 29 and 41, typically 30 or 35. This selection is optimal for being provided in a cover that is very modular. The cover fits on a large number of handgrips and on most types of crutches.
By using the flange, the cover can be rolled up to remove it from the handgrip. This may be repeated several times. The rolling-up flange preferably has a thickness of 0.5-5.0 mm, more preferably 0.6-4.0 mm, even more preferably 0.8-3.0 mm, most preferably 1.0-2.0 mm. This flange thickness was not experienced by users to be troublesome, and it is sufficient for performing the rolling up/unrolling function. The flange is preferably provided over the whole periphery of the elongated body. This ensures that rolling up takes place uniformly. The provision of a rolling-up flange ensures that the cover can be rolled up without using a support, for example support provided by a handgrip fitted with the cover. When used in a kit, the cover will preferably be rolled up already. This is preferred to folding up, because a user can more easily manipulate the material to fit it over a handgrip.
The term "mobility aid" as used herein means aids for people with limited mobility and their assistants. For the latter, we are thinking for example of pushers of a wheelchair. Limited mobility may be the consequence of a handicap or accident, such as a broken leg. The aids comprise walking aids such as a walking stick, crutch, and rollator; but also means of conveyance such as a wheelchair. These aids are provided with a handgrip that is grasped by a user so that the aid can provide improved mobility.
The elongated body preferably has a constant diameter along the longitudinal axis of the body. The diameter of the elongated body is preferably the same everywhere apart from the ends; in other words, the top and the rolling-up flange. When the cover has different diameters over the casing, it is not so easy to roll up or fit.
The elastic material is preferably a silicone, more preferably a medical-grade silicone and/or antimicrobial silicone. A flexible textile material could be used as an alternative.
The term "silicone" or "silicone rubber" as used herein means a polymer in which the chain is formed from silicon and oxygen atoms. Silicones are also described as elastomers and rubber-like materials.
Silicones are inert, kneadable, firm, temperature-resistant materials. These properties make them extremely suitable for use in the present invention.
Silicones can be brought to a desired shape using known techniques. By adding a hardener to the silicone composition, the material can be cured or polymerized in a desired shape, by heat, pressure or condensation. The cast silicone material is preferably cured with heat. A compression moulding technique may be used for making silicone mouldings. Preferably an injection moulding technique is used wherein a silicone material is injected into a mould. This technique is preferably employed for preparing a cover according to the invention. Compression moulding may for example be used for preparing a patch according to the invention. A technique that is less suitable, especially for the cover, is 3D printing. This is difficult for a very elastic material, and the end result built up in thin layers still gives a certain surface roughness that is undesirable for the present invention and application. The cover that comprises silicones preferably does not comprise any textile material.
The silicone composition for making the cover preferably comprises 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butylperoxy)hexane. This is an initiator for the polymerization or curing reaction.
The inside of the elongated body is provided with smooth or rough silicone. In another preferred embodiment the outside of the elongated body is provided with rough silicone. More preferably the inside of the elongated body is provided with smooth silicone and the outside is provided with rough silicone. The rough silicone ensures good tactile feedback of the material. This feels pleasant for the user. Sweaty hands may be less common. Smoothness or roughness of a formed silicone material may be obtained by appropriate choice of the mould or by roughening the surface of the formed material, for example by milling or etching.
The silicone material is preferably a silicone with high notch and/or tear resistance. This material has the property that when the material is damaged, for example by being cut into, the tear is not propagated. Preferably the material of the cover has a tear strength of at least 10 kN/m, more preferably 15 kN/m, even more preferably at least 20 kN/m, and most preferably at least 25 kN/m. Preferably the material of the cover has a tear strength between 10 and 30 kN/m, preferably between 11 and 28 kN/m.
The elongated body is preferably seamless, at least on the outside. The absence of a noticeable transition on the outside has the advantage that in use, when gripping the handgrip with the cover there is less likelihood of blister formation.
The elongated body is preferably provided, at least at the closed end, with an information carrier.
The term information carrier as used herein means an identifying colour, an identifying word, a logo, pictogram, or some other means that serves for identification or information, for example a difference in roughness.
The information carrier preferably comprises a phosphorescent silicone. This has the advantage that the cover can fluoresce in the dark; so-called "glow-in-the-dark".
The phosphorescent silicone may be applied during production of the cover, for example by mixing a phosphorescent additive in the silicone composition. In an alternative embodiment a phosphorescent product is sprayed on the silicone cover; so-called spray-on. An identifying colour or glow-in-the-dark is preferably provided in the complete cover.
The cover is preferably configured further in order to increase comfort in use. The second end of the elongated body is preferably closed.
In a preferred embodiment the elongated body is configured at the second end for receiving a magnetic body with which the aforementioned crutch or similar mobility aid can be temporarily attached to a second magnetic material with pole opposite to the magnetic body or to material that is attracted by the magnetic body.
A cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is preferably provided at the closed end of the elongated body with a chamber with the shape of the magnetic body and provided with an opening for insertion and form-fit reception of the magnetic body in the chamber. The opening is preferably round, oval or slot-shaped. This has the effect that the magnet can be fitted in the chamber more securely, with less sliding. This has the advantage that in use, the magnet remains in position, and good adhesion with another magnet or magnetic material is maintained longer. This embodiment has the advantage, relative to a magnet fitted in a chamber of the crutch, that there is less loss of magnetic force through the edges of the recess in the crutch in which the magnet is received. In addition, the silicone material is a lightweight, non-dense material. The magnetic body is preferably inserted in a chamber with a wall thickness of max. 2 mm, measured in the longitudinal direction of the handgrip. The wall thickness of the cover is greater at the sides of a magnet-shaped body, measured along the longitudinal axis of the magnet perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cover. This has the advantage that protection against dropping is provided. For a cover without a magnet chamber it is also advantageous to provide extra wall thickness at the distal end. This protects the cover against damage by sharp objects when dropped.
The inventor established that in an embodiment wherein a magnet was glued in the end of a cover with a closed end, the magnet could change position, which had the breaking of attachment as a consequence. For a mobility aid it is undesirable for this to happen unexpectedly, because a user needs the aid for better mobility and stability. As an improvement, an extra chamber was included for form-fitting accommodation of the magnet. This magnet chamber was provided at the end of the cover. The magnet chamber does not correspond to the complete cover that forms a chamber for the handgrip.
The opening is preferably round, oval or slot-shaped. The opening is preferably provided with rounded edges. Provision of rounded edges provides a stronger material compared to material with corners. In addition, it is more suitable for moulding in the injection moulding process. The opening with rounded edges also has the advantage that the magnetic body is easier to insert. It also provides improved tear resistance.
The wall thickness of the cover, at least in the zone where the cover is gripped during use, is preferably 0.5-2.5 mm, more preferably 0.6-2.2 mm, even more preferably 0.7-2.1 mm, and most preferably 0.8-2.0 mm.
In another aspect the invention provides an associated patch. More specifically, the invention provides a patch configured to be provided on a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar aid, characterized in that it comprises a body made of a compressible material, and the body is provided at least in the longitudinal direction with an adhesive for adhesion to the handgrip. The patch is preferably provided for combining with a removable cover according to an embodiment of the invention. The body is preferably T-shaped or figure-of-eight shaped or wing-shaped; preferably T-shaped. The body is preferably applied over substantially the full length of the handgrip, at the top. Preferably, the base of the T-shape is applied tightly against a longitudinal axis of the mobility aid. The thickest part of the T is preferably fitted almost against the stem of a crutch. This ensures maximum support of a user's palm and little finger. This positioning is also advantageous for less pain and blistering, as it provides maximum protection of the so-called loose skin between the thumb and index finger of a user's hand.
The compressible material is preferably a silicone material or a gel material. The gel material is preferably a polyurethane (PU) gel. The gel material functions as an artificial layer of fat and gives optimum distribution of body weight. Advantages of the compressible material are that it is waterproof and non-odour absorbing.
The preferably T-shaped body preferably has a thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm; more preferably 4.0-5.0 mm. The T-shaped body is preferably provided with chamfered and/or rounded edges. This has the advantage that a block-like transition is avoided. A patch consisting of a gel is preferred. Most preferably, a gel material is used with a self-adhesive surface. The body may be manufactured by punching. A gel patch with a self-adhesive layer may be manufactured using a mirror mould. Application of a layer of glue is no longer necessary.
The total thickness formed by one wall thickness of the cover and the patch is preferably 4.0 mm to 8.0 mm, more preferably 4.2-7.5 mm, even more preferably 4.4-7.0 mm, and most preferably 4.5 to 5.5 mm. The cover has a wall thickness of typically 2 mm in the unstretched state. In use and thus when fitted to a handgrip, this may decrease to 0.5 to 1.0 mm. The gel patch is typically 3.5 mm thick. This gives a total thickness of 4.5 to 5.5 mm.
The adhesion is preferably reversible. This means that the body can be detached from the handgrip. The adhesion is more preferably multiply reversible. This means that it is advantageous to be able to repeatedly attach the body to the handgrip and remove it again.
In a further aspect the invention provides a method for manufacturing a removable cover configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, comprising the steps of:

providing an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55,
injection moulding of the elastic material in a mould to obtain an elongated body extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip, with a first opening at a first end of said elongated body for receiving the aforementioned handgrip and a second end located opposite the first end that is open or closed, and to provide the periphery of the first end of the elongated body with a flange for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body wherein the length of the elongated body decreases or increases, respectively,
optionally configuring the closed end for receiving a magnetic body with which the crutch or the like may be temporarily attached to a magnetic material or to material that is attracted by the magnetic body.

In another aspect the invention provides a use of a removable cover according to the invention, preferably in combination with a patch according to an embodiment of the invention and/or a magnetic body according to an embodiment of the invention. A cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is preferably used as a customizing means and comfort-increasing accessory of a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably for the handgrip of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid. By means of a cover according to the invention, an aid may be brightened up, embellished or decorated. Comfort is also increased, especially in combined use with a magnetic body or patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
In a further aspect, the invention provides a kit of components comprising a cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, and/or a patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention and/or a magnet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; and instructions for removably fitting the components of the kit over a handgrip of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch, trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid.
When used in a kit, the cover will preferably be rolled up already. This is preferred over folding up, because a user can more easily manipulate the material to fit it over a handgrip.
In a kit according to an embodiment of the invention, preferably several covers and magnetic bodies are provided. By providing at least two of each, together with opposite poles for the magnets, a user can equip at least two handgrips to provide extra support and stability. The magnetic bodies are preferably preinstalled.

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

Table 1

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

A magnet of 7 Newton strength is preferably used, more preferably 7 Newton strength and with 20 mm diameter x 4.0 mm thickness. This magnet was found to be the best in tests with users, who were asked to use a crutch for picking up a second crutch. Herein a crutch had a weight of 700 to 900 g. When using a magnet of lower strength, picking up the crutch required more dexterity. The crutch fell more quickly. When a stronger magnet is used, it is more difficult to separate two the handgrips that were attached using two magnets.
In a final aspect, the invention provides a method for removably fitting a cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention over a handgrip of a mobility aid, comprising the steps of:

The cover may be applied advantageously in this way. The use of a coloured silicone composition offers the possibility of personalizing or customizing a handgrip.
The method preferably also contains the step of:

providing a patch according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, and fitting the patch on the handgrip before fitting the cover.

Separate provision of a patch has the advantage that it can be positioned on a handgrip according to a user's requirement. If this were already provided in the cover, the latter would be difficult to roll up. The cover is preferably manufactured without provision for receiving a patch.
In a very last aspect, the invention provides a mobility aid comprising a handgrip fitted with a cover according to an embodiment of the invention. The handgrip is preferably provided in the longitudinal direction with a patch according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a body made of a compressible material and attached to the body by means of adhesive provided in the longitudinal direction of the patch body. Additionally, or as an alternative, the cover may be provided with a magnetic body according to an embodiment of the invention inserted in a chamber provided at the closed end of the elongated body of the cover with the shape of the magnetic body and provided with a round, oval or slot-shaped opening for insertion and form-fit reception of the magnetic body in the chamber.
The invention is further illustrated on the basis of examples and figures. These are not limiting. Preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7.
Example 1 is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the simplest embodiment of a cover 1 according to the invention, namely an oblong body 13 with a closed distal end 15 and an open proximal end provided with a rolling-up flange 17. As can be seen from the cross-section through the cover, as shown in Figure 2 , cover 1 forms an inner chamber 19 delimited by an elongated body 13, a closed end 15 which, with rounded-off edges 16, has a transition to the elongated body 13, ending at the bottom with a flange 17. The surface of the elongated body in the direction of the inner chamber 23, or in other words the inside, is preferably smooth. The surface of the elongated body on the outside 22, is preferably rough. This is advantageous respectively for fitting the cover over a handgrip and gripping of the cover by a user. The inside diameter 20 of the cover is typically 30-33 cm, and the outside diameter is 30-35 cm. The length or height of the cover 1 is typically 12-14 cm. The cover may be combined with a magnet. This may be achieved for example by fitting a magnet on the end of a handgrip with glue or tape, and then fitting the cover over it. However, it was established that in use the magnetic force is often stronger than the force of adhesion provided by the glue or tape. This causes the magnet to slip. With incorrect positioning of the magnets that temporarily attach two handgrips together, this results in the attachment being broken. Preferably the magnet is inserted in a form-fit chamber provided in the cover. This is illustrated in further examples.
Example 2 relates to a cover in combination with a chamber for form-fitting accommodation of a magnetic body. Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a cover 1 according to the invention. The cover 1 is provided with a space 4 for receiving a magnetic body. For this purpose, the walls 8, 9 of the distal end are thicker. This has the advantage that the rounded-off edges 7 are also somewhat thicker in comparison with the embodiment in Figure 2. This has the advantage that it has a protective effect. The cover and the magnet are less likely to be damaged if dropped. The rolling-up flange is preferably rounded and configured to allow easy rolling-up. The elasticity of the material allows the elongated body 13 to give and fold. The top or apex of the distal end may be provided with information carriers. The illustrated cover 1 carries a logo 14 on the end. This location does not hamper user comfort.
Example 3 relates to a cover in combination with a chamber for form-fitting accommodation of a magnetic body configured with an entrance. The provision of an entrance ensures that the cover can be produced in the absence of the magnet. This avoids heating of the magnet in the production process. This is favourable for good positioning of the magnetic body, and consequently good attachment with another handgrip. This preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figure 4 . The cover is provided with a chamber 4 for receiving a magnetic body. It is further provided with a circular antechamber that allows the magnetic body to be fitted in the chamber after production of the cover. Owing to the elasticity of the cover material, the edges will still give slightly so that the magnetic body can be pushed into the chamber. Owing to the smaller diameter, the body is held in place. The chamber 4 is made to be a form-fit with the magnetic body. This ensures that the magnetic body fits well and remains in its position. This is an advantage for maintaining the attachment of two handgrips. The cover is preferably made oval-shaped as shown in Figure 4g.
Example 4 relates to a patch according to an embodiment of the invention. A patch 10 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 . This consists of a T-shaped body 30 with a self-adhesive surface 37, chamfered edges 31, 38 and rounded edges 32, 33. Alternatives without a self-adhesive surface are also possible. However, these do not have the advantage that they can be replaced frequently. In addition, removal of a layer of glue requires an extra operation. In addition, not all materials are compatible with a glue. Any damage to the patch may make further use difficult.
Figure 6 is a schematic representation of another patch 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The leg parallel to the longitudinal axis with width 34 has been made somewhat larger relative to the leg of the T-shape transverse to the longitudinal axis with width 35, compared to the design shown in Figure 5. This has the advantage that the patch 10 may be suitable for almost all users, whether they have small or large hands.
Example 5 relates to the material and the thickness of the patch. Various experiments were carried out to find the most suitable patch for use in the present invention, in particular for combining with a cover for a mobility aid. The results of the experiments are summarized in Table 1.
Three different materials were tested, each in different thicknesses. These were a two-component silicone (A), a gel patch (B), and a PU gel (C). Material A consisted of a flexible material, but was not a gel. There was no glue layer. It was fitted by means of a binding tape that sticks to itself. Material B is a gel material. This has the advantage that pressure points are distributed uniformly. The patch was provided with a layer of glue during production. This was disadvantageous for reuse. In case of incorrect positioning of the patch, it did not allow to be removed easily from the crutch and to be repositioned. The third material was a PU gel. This also ensured a uniform distribution of pressure points. The material was self-adhesive along one side. The patch could be fitted on a handgrip, removed, and repositioned frequently. To gain user acceptance it was important to be able to bring about a reduction of pain and yet be able to offer comfort. It can be concluded from the results that as the patch increases in thickness, the perception of pain may be reduced. However, an increase in thickness means that a user's hand cannot be closed so well around the handgrip. This is an important minus point in an application where improved mobility is the target. The user may not get the feeling that less grip and thus less support, result from the use of the patch.

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

Table 1: test panel feedback in connection with pain reduction and comfort (/ = not tested).

	2K Silicone		Silicone gel patch		PU gel
Patch thickness	Markedly less pain	Good hand grip	Markedly less pain	Good hand grip	Markedly less pain	Good hand grip
2 mm	No	Yes	/	/	/	/
3.5 mm	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
5 mm	Yes	Yes	/	/	/	/
7 mm	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	No
10 mm	Yes	No	/	/	/	/
14 mm	Yes	No	No	No	No	No

Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a use according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, namely holding two invalid crutches 100 together. For this purpose, each crutch is provided with a gel patch 10 on a handgrip 2 of the crutch. The handgrip is covered with a cover 1. At the distal end, the body contains a magnet-shaped body 3 enclosed in a form-fit chamber 4. The magnets are opposite poles, so that they form a temporary attachment when the ends of the crutches touch each other. The T-shaped gel patch 10 is fitted on the handgrip 1 so that the widest base is near the stem of the crutch. In this way, in use it gives support to the user's palm and little finger. This part of the hand is used most when gripping and manoeuvring the handgrip. It is most advantageous to make this zone thicker, to prevent formation of blisters on a user's hand.

Claims

Cover (1) configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip (2) of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch (100), trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, comprising: an elongated, tubular body (13) extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip (2), with a first opening at a first end of said elongated body (13) for receiving said handgrip (2) and a second end (15) located opposite the first end that is open or closed (15), characterized in that the elongated body (13) is made of an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55 and the elongated body (13) is provided, at the periphery of the first end, with a flange (17) for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end of the elongated body (13) wherein the length of the elongated body (13) decreases or increases, respectively.
Cover (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the elastic material is a silicone, preferably a medical-grade silicone and/or antimicrobial silicone.
Cover (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the elongated body (13) is made of a silicone with high notch and/or tear resistance.
Cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated body (13) is seamless at least on the outside.
Cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second, preferably closed, end (15) is configured for receiving a magnetic body (3) with which said mobility aid can be temporarily attached to a second magnetic material with pole opposite of the magnetic body (3) or to material that is attracted by the magnetic body (3).
Cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elongated body (13) is provided with an information carrier (14) at least at the second, closed end (15); preferably the information carrier is phosphorescent silicone.
Cover (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, at the second, closed end of the elongated body (13), a chamber (19) is provided, with the shape of the magnetic body (3) provided with a round, oval or slot-shaped opening (5) for insertion and form-fit reception of the magnetic body (3) in the chamber (19); preferably the round, oval or slot-shaped opening (5) is provided with rounded edges (6, 6').
Cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the zone where the handgrip (2) with the cover (1) will be gripped in use, the wall thickness of a cover wall is 0.5-2.5 mm.
Method for manufacturing a removable cover (1) configured for being fitted removably over a handgrip (2) of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch (100), trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, according to one of claims 1-8, comprising the steps of:
- providing an elastic material with an elasticity, expressed in Shore A, of 25-55,

- injection moulding of the elastic material in a mould to obtain an elongated body (13) extending in the axial direction for receiving the handgrip (2), with a first opening at a first end of said elongated body (13) for receiving said handgrip (2) and a second end (15) located opposite the first end that is open or closed, and for providing, at the periphery of the first end of the elongated body (13), a flange (17) for rolling up and unrolling the first end in the direction of the second end (15) of the elongated body (13) wherein the length of the elongated body (13) decreases or increases, respectively,

- optionally configuring the second, closed end (15) for receiving a magnetic body (3) with which the mobility aid may be attached temporarily to a magnetic material or to material that is attracted by the magnetic body (3).
Kit of components comprising a cover (1) according to one of claims 1-8 , optionally a patch (10), optionally a magnetic body (3), and instructions for removably fitting the components of the kit over a handgrip (2) of a mobility aid, preferably of an invalid crutch (100), trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid; preferably the magnetic body (3) has a magnet strength of 7 Newton , more preferably a strength of 7 Newton in combination with a 20 mm diameter and 4.0 mm thickness; wherein said patch (10) is configured to be provided on said handgrip (2), wherein said patch (10) comprises a body made of a compressible material, and the body (30) is provided at least in the longitudinal direction with an adhesive for adhesion to the handgrip (2); the body (30) is preferably T-shaped or figure-of-eight shaped or wing-shaped, and is provided for combining with said removable cover (1).
Kit of components according to claim 10, characterized in that the compressible material of said patch body is a polyurethane gel.
Kit of components according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, the body (30) has a thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm; more preferably 4.0-5.0 mm and the T-shape is provided with chamfered and/or rounded edges (38).
Method for removably fitting a cover (1) according to one of claims 1-8 over a handgrip (2) of a mobility aid, preferably a handgrip of an invalid crutch (100), trolley, walking frame, rollator, walking stick, wheelchair or similar mobility aid, comprising the steps of:
- providing a cover (1) according to one of claims 1-8;

- rolling up the cover (1) over the flange (17) provided on the first, open end;

- fitting the rolled-up cover (1) over a handgrip (2), preferably over a handgrip (2) of a mobility aid;

- unrolling the cover (1), thereby obtaining a handgrip (2) provided with the cover (1).
Mobility aid comprising a handgrip of a mobility aid, covered removably with a cover (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein preferably the handgrip (2) is provided in the longitudinal direction with a patch (10) configured to be provided on said handgrip (2), wherein said patch (10) comprises a body (30) made of a compressible material and attached to the handgrip by means of adhesive provided in the longitudinal direction of the patch body and/or of a magnetic body inserted in the chamber provided at the second, closed end of the elongated body (13) of the cover (1) with the shape of the magnetic body (3) and provided with a round, oval or slot-shaped opening for insertion and form-fit reception of the magnetic body (3) in the chamber (4).
Mobility aid according to claim 14, wherein the body (30) is T-shaped or figure-of-eight shaped or wing-shaped and/or the compressible material of said patch body is a polyurethane gel and/or the body (30) has a thickness of max. 5 mm, preferably 3.5-5.0 mm; more preferably 4.0-5.0 mm and the T-shape is provided with chamfered and/or rounded edges (38).