JP2007252888A - Wheelchair combining with walking aid - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a wheelchair 2 which can be also used as a walking aid in safety. <P>SOLUTION: This wheelchair 2 is equipped with a main frame 4, a pair of wheeling frames 8 mounted with handgrips 6. This main frame 4 is equipped with a pair of axles 22 mounted with main wheels. The wheeling frames 8 are rotatable to the main frame 4 between a first position and a second position located forward of the first position. When the wheeling frames 8 are located at the second position, the handgrips 6 are located forward of the axles 22. Preferably, the wheelchair 2 is further equipped with a position-adjusting means 10. The position-adjusting means 10 is joined with the main frame 4. The position-adjusting means 10 is located between the main frame 4 and the wheeling frames 8. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a wheelchair used for a physically handicapped person, an elderly person, an injured person and the like. More specifically, the present invention relates to a wheelchair that can also be used as a walking aid.

  Wheelchairs are used by people who have difficulty walking on their own, such as injured and elderly people. The user uses a wheelchair as the seating means and the moving means. The user may continue to use the wheelchair for a long time. It is painful for the user to maintain a constant posture for a long time. Various wheelchairs excellent in comfort have been proposed.

  Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2003-190222 discloses a wheelchair equipped with a reclining mechanism. In this wheelchair, the back frame rotates around the joint point between the seating surface bar and the back frame. By this rotation, the posture of the user is changed.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-103248 discloses a wheelchair having a hinge in the middle of a seating surface. In this wheelchair, the user's buttocks drop downward when the back frame is tilted down. In this wheelchair, there is little friction between the user's body and the back seat.
JP 2003-190222 A JP-A-2005-103248

  Injured persons, elderly people, etc. who use wheelchairs have users who perform walking training in order to return to society. A walker may be used for this walking training. In this case, the user must prepare a wheelchair and a walker. It is expensive to prepare a wheelchair and a walker. A space that can accommodate a wheelchair and a walker is required.

  The wheelchair includes a pusher for a caregiver or the like to operate the wheelchair. This pusher is located behind the axle of the main wheel mounted behind this wheelchair. When a wheelchair is used as a walking aid, there is a problem that if the user grabs the pusher, the wheelchair tilts backward. Such a wheelchair cannot be safely used as a walking aid.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a wheelchair that can be safely used as a walking aid.

  The wheelchair according to the present invention includes a main frame and a pusher grasped by a hand. The main frame includes an axle on which main wheels are mounted. The pusher is configured to be able to move between a first position and a second position positioned in front of the first position. When the pusher is in the first position, the pusher is located behind the axle. When the pusher is in the second position, the pusher is located in front of the axle.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes a pusher frame on which the pusher is mounted. The pusher frame is configured to be rotatable with respect to the main frame. The pusher can move between the first position and the second position by the rotation of the pusher frame.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes position adjusting means. The position adjusting means is located between the main frame and the pusher frame.

  Preferably, in the wheelchair, the position adjusting means includes a first engagement portion connected to the main frame, a second engagement portion connected to the pusher frame, the first engagement portion, and the second engagement portion. And a pin for connecting the engaging portion. The second engaging portion can rotate with respect to the first engaging portion around the pin.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes a pair of back frames forming a back surface. The pusher is attached to the back frame. The back frame is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame. By the movement of the back frame in the front-rear direction, the pusher can move between the first position and the second position.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes a slide member. The slide member is located between the main frame and the back frame. The slide member includes a rail that extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame, and a carrier that can slide the rail. The back frame is fixed to the carrier.

  Preferably, in the wheelchair, the slide member is located above the main frame. Preferably, in this wheelchair, the slide member is an armrest.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes a link member. The link member is located between the main frame and the back frame. The pusher in the first position can be moved to the second position by folding the link member. The pusher in the second position can be moved to the first position by restoring the link member.

  Preferably, in the wheelchair, the link member is positioned above the main frame, extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame, and is positioned further above the first frame. A second frame extending in the front-rear direction and a front frame having a lower end fixed to the main frame and extending upward are provided. The front portion of the first frame is connected to the lower portion of the front frame with a first front pin. The rear portion of the first frame is connected to the lower portion of the back frame with a first rear pin. The front part of the second frame is connected to the upper part of the front frame with a second front pin. The rear part of the second frame is connected to a central part located above the lower part of the back frame with a second rear pin. When the pusher is in the first position, when the pusher is moved diagonally forward and upward and the back frame is moved diagonally forward and upward, the first frame is centered around the first front pin. The second frame is configured to be rotated with respect to the front frame around the second front pin while the link member is folded. The pusher moves to the second position by folding the link member. When this pusher is in this second position, when this pusher is moved diagonally backward and downward and the back frame moves diagonally backward and downward, the first frame is centered around the first front pin. The second frame is configured to rotate with respect to the front frame about the second front pin while the link member is restored. As the link member is restored, the pusher moves to the first position.

  Preferably, in this wheelchair, the second frame is an armrest.

  Preferably, in the wheelchair, the position adjusting means includes a first engagement portion connected to the main frame, a second engagement portion connected to the pusher frame, the first engagement portion, and the second engagement portion. And a support rod that connects the engaging portion. The support bar is fixed to the first engagement portion. The second engaging portion is configured to be able to rotate in the horizontal direction around the support rod.

  Preferably, the wheelchair further includes a link member and a slide member. The link member bridges between the main frame and the back frame. The link member is configured to rotate with respect to the main frame. The link member is configured to rotate with respect to the back frame. The slide member includes a rail and a carrier that can move along the rail. The rail extends obliquely upward and forward from the vicinity of the axle. The back frame is connected to the carrier.

  In this wheelchair, when the pusher is in the second position, the pusher is positioned in front of the axle, so even if the user grabs this pusher and puts part of his weight on this wheelchair, This wheelchair never tilts backwards. This wheelchair can also be used safely as a walking aid. By moving the pusher from the second position to the first position, a user who is tired from walking training can sit on this wheelchair and heal his fatigue.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments with appropriate reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a side view showing a wheelchair 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 2. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 2. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 2 includes a main frame 4, a pair of pushers 6, a pair of pusher frames 8, and a pair of position adjusting means 10 positioned between the main frame 4 and the pusher frame 8. Yes. The main frame 4 includes a pair of seat frames 12, a pair of back frames 14, a pair of first bars 16, a pair of second bars 18, a pair of third bars 20, and a pair of axles 22. I have. The configuration of the main frame 4 is appropriately determined in consideration of the safety, comfort, etc. of the wheelchair 2.

  The seat frame 12 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat is stretched between one seat frame 12 and the other seat frame 12. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet. In other words, the seat frame 12 forms a seat surface.

  The back frame 14 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 14 and the other back frame 14. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 14 forms the back surface. In the wheelchair 2, an armrest 24 extending in the front-rear direction is attached to the back frame 14. The armrest 24 includes an arm frame 26 and a buffer plate 28 attached to the upper surface of the arm frame 26. The rear end of the arm frame 26 is fixed to the back frame 14 by welding. Although not shown, a sponge is placed inside the buffer plate 28. The buffer plate 28 is configured to bend when a force is applied. Since the buffer plate 28 is soft, the user can comfortably put his arm on the armrest 24. In order to increase the rigidity of the main frame 4, a reinforcing frame connected to the arm frame 26 and the seat frame 12 and extending in the vertical direction may be provided on the front side of the armrest 24.

  The first bar 16 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction while inclining backward from the rear side of the seat frame 12. One end 30 of the first bar 16 is fixed to the seat frame 12 by welding.

  The second bar 18 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. One end 32 of the second bar 18 is fixed to the first bar 16 by welding. A support bar 34 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the second bar 18 by welding. A front wheel 38 (a caster in this example) is attached to the lower end 36 of the support bar 34.

  The third bar 20 extends substantially upward in the vertical direction while tilting backward. The lower side of the third bar 20 is fixed to the other end 40 of the second bar 18 by welding. On the side surface of the wheelchair 2, the third bar 20 intersects the seat frame 12 and the back frame 14. The third bar 20 is fixed to the seat frame 12 by welding at an intersection position 42 with the seat frame 12. The third bar 20 is fixed to the back frame 14 by welding at an intersection position 44 with the back frame 14. The third bar 20 increases the rigidity of the main frame 4.

  A foot frame 46 is fixed to the lower side of the third bar 20 by welding. A footrest 48 is attached to the lower side of the foot frame 46. When a user sits on the wheelchair 2, the user's feet are placed on the footrest 48. Although not shown, the footrest 48 is fixed to the foot frame 46 by using a hinge. The footrest 48 is foldable. The footrest 48 may be detachable.

  The axle 22 is installed on the first bar 16. A main wheel 50 is attached to the axle 22. In the wheelchair 2, the main wheel 50 is located behind the front wheel 38.

  The pusher frame 8 is located above the main frame 4. A pusher 6 is attached to one end 52 of the pusher frame 8. This pusher 6 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 6 takes into consideration the ease of grasping of a caregiver or a user. In the wheelchair 2, the pusher 6 extends in the width direction.

  FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view showing a part of the wheelchair 2 of FIG. In FIG. 2, the left-right direction is the width direction of the wheelchair 2. In FIG. 2, the third bar 20, the position adjusting means 10, the pusher frame 8, and the pusher 6 are shown.

  The position adjusting means 10 is located between the main frame 4 and the pusher frame 8. The position adjusting means 10 includes a first engagement portion 54, a second engagement portion 56, and a pin 58. The first engaging portion 54 is connected to the end 60 of the third bar 20. The second engaging portion 56 is connected to the other end 62 of the pusher frame 8. In the wheelchair 2, the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 are combined in a notch shape. The first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 are connected by this pin 58. The second engaging portion 56 can rotate with respect to the first engaging portion 54 around the pin 58. The position adjusting means 10 has such a rotation function.

  In the wheelchair 2, a male screw 64 is formed on the side surface of the pin 58. The first engaging portion 54 includes a hole 66 penetrating in the width direction. The second engaging portion 56 includes a hole 68 penetrating in the width direction, and a female screw 70 that meshes with the male screw 64 is formed on a side surface of the hole 68. This wheel is configured such that the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 can be tightened by screwing the pin 58.

  Concavities and convexities 74 are provided on the surface 72 of the first engagement portion 54 on the second engagement portion 56 side. Concavities and convexities 78 are provided on the surface 76 of the second engagement portion 56 on the first engagement portion 54 side. The wheelchair 2 is configured such that the unevenness 74 of the first engaging portion 54 and the unevenness 78 of the second engaging portion 56 are engaged with each other. When the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 are tightened by the pin 58 and the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 come into contact with each other, the pusher frame 8 is The three bars 20 cannot be rotated. The position adjusting means 10 has such a fixing function.

  In this wheelchair 2, the position adjusting means 10 has a turning function and a fixing function, so that the position of the pusher 6 with respect to the main frame 4 can be adjusted as appropriate according to the usage method of the wheelchair 2. In addition, this wheelchair 2 may be provided with another position adjusting means having a turning function and a fixing function.

  FIG. 3 is a side view showing a state where the wheelchair 2 of FIG. 1 is used. In FIG. 3, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 2. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 2. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the pusher 6 is located on the extension line of the third bar 20. The pusher 6 is located behind the axle 22. In the wheelchair 2, the position of the pusher 6 shown in FIG. 3 is the first position. When the pusher 6 is in the first position, the caregiver 80 can easily grasp the pusher 6. In the wheelchair 2, the caregiver 80 can easily operate the wheelchair 2. The wheelchair 2 is excellent in operability by the caregiver 80.

  FIG. 4 is a side view showing a state where the wheelchair 2 of FIG. 1 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 4, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 2. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 2. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the pusher frame 8 is inclined forward with respect to the third bar 20. In the wheelchair 2, the position of the pusher 6 shown in FIG. 4 is the second position. This second position is located in front of the first position. The pusher frame 8 rotates with respect to the third bar 20. In other words, the pusher frame 8 rotates with respect to the main frame 4. The wheelchair 2 is configured such that the pusher 6 can move between the first position and the second position by this rotation.

  In the wheelchair 2, when the pusher 6 is in the second position, the pusher 6 is located in front of the axle 22. For this reason, even if the user 82 grabs the pusher 6 and uses the wheelchair 2 as a walking aid, the wheelchair 2 does not tilt backward. The wheelchair 2 can support a part of the weight of the user 82. This wheelchair 2 can be safely used as a walking aid.

  In the wheelchair 2, when the pusher 6 is in the second position, the pusher 6 is located behind the front wheel 38. For this reason, when the user 82 holds the pusher 6 and uses the wheelchair 2 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user 82 is effectively supported by the front wheel 38 and the main wheel 50. Even if the wheelchair 2 supports a part of the weight of the user 82, the wheelchair 2 does not tilt backward. The safety when the wheelchair 2 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In the wheelchair 2, the operation method for changing the pusher 6 from the first position to the second position is as follows. First, when the pin 58 is turned, the tightened first engaging portion 54 and second engaging portion 56 are loosened. Thereby, this 1st engaging part 54 and this 2nd engaging part 56 are pulled apart. Next, the pusher frame 8 is rotated forward about the pin 58. Thereby, this pusher 6 is arrange | positioned in this 2nd position. Next, the pin 58 is screwed and the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 are tightened. As a result, the pusher 6 is fixed at the second position. In this way, the pusher 6 is changed from the first position to the second position. Thereby, the user 82 can use this wheelchair 2 as a walking aid. The user 82 can perform walking training using the wheelchair 2.

  In the wheelchair 2, the operation method for changing the pusher 6 from the second position to the first position is as follows. First, when the pin 58 is turned, the tightened first engaging portion 54 and second engaging portion 56 are loosened. Thereby, this 1st engaging part 54 and this 2nd engaging part 56 are pulled apart. Next, the pusher frame 8 is rotated backward about the pin 58. Thereby, this pusher 6 is arrange | positioned in this 1st position. Next, the pin 58 is screwed and the first engagement portion 54 and the second engagement portion 56 are tightened. As a result, the pusher 6 is fixed at the first position. In this way, the pusher 6 is changed from the second position to the first position. As a result, the user 82 who is tired from walking training can sit on the wheelchair 2 and heal his fatigue.

  In FIG. 4, the point PA represents the center of the axle 22. The point PB represents the front end of the pusher 6 in the front-rear direction. A double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle 22 to the front end PB of the pusher 6 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 2, the protrusion distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 2 as a walking aid can be enhanced. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 4, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 38. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the front end PB. In this wheelchair, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting this distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 2 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 5 is a side view showing a wheelchair 84 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 84. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 84. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 84 includes a main frame 86, a pair of back frames 88, a pair of pushers 90, and a pair of armrests 92 as slide members positioned between the main frame 86 and the back frame 88. ing. The main frame 86 includes a pair of seat frames 94, a pair of first bars 96, a pair of second bars 98, a pair of third bars 100, a pair of fourth bars 102, and a pair of foot frames 104. And a pair of axles 106. Note that the configuration of the main frame 86 is appropriately determined in consideration of the safety and comfort of the wheelchair 84.

  The back frame 88 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 88 and the other back frame 88. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 88 forms the back surface.

  The pusher 90 is attached to the end 108 of the back frame 88. This pusher 90 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 90 takes into consideration the ease of grasping of a caregiver or a user. In this wheelchair 84, the pusher 90 extends in the front-rear direction.

  The seat frame 94 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat is stretched between one seat frame 94 and the other seat frame 94. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet. In other words, the seat frame 94 forms a seat surface.

  The first bar 96 extends substantially in the vertical direction. The first bar 96 is fixed to the rear end 110 of the seat frame 94 by welding.

  The second bar 98 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. On the rear side, the second bar 98 is fixed to the lower end 112 of the first bar 96 by welding. A support bar 114 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the second bar 98 by welding. A front wheel 118 (a caster in this example) is attached to the lower end 116 of the support bar 114.

  The third bar 100 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, the lower end of the third bar 100 is fixed to the second bar 98 by welding. A part of the third bar 100 overlaps the support bar 114 in the width direction. The upper end 120 of the third bar 100 is fixed to the seat frame 94 by welding. The third bar 100 increases the rigidity of the main frame 86.

  The fourth bar 102 extends substantially upward in the vertical direction while tilting backward. The lower end 122 of the fourth bar 102 is fixed to the seat frame 94 by welding in the vicinity of the fixed portion between the third bar 100 and the seat frame 94.

  The foot frame 104 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction from the front end 124 of the seat frame 94. An upper end 126 of the foot frame 104 is fixed to the seat frame 94 by welding. On the lower side, the foot frame 104 is fixed to the tip 128 of the second bar 98 by welding. A footrest 132 is attached to the lower end 130 of the foot frame 104. When the user sits on the wheelchair 84, the user puts his / her foot on the footrest 132. Although not shown, the footrest 132 is fixed to the foot frame 104 by using a hinge. The footrest 132 is foldable.

  The axle 106 is installed on the first bar 96. A main wheel 134 is attached to the axle 106. In the wheelchair 84, the main wheel 134 is located behind the front wheel 118.

  The armrest 92 is located above the main frame 86. The armrest 92 includes a rail 136, a carrier 138, and a buffer plate 140. The rail 136 is located above the seat frame 94 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction along the seat frame 94. In other words, the rail 136 extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame 86. The rail 136 is fixed to the upper side of the first bar 96 by welding. Although not shown, on the front side, the rail 136 is fixed to the upper end of the fourth bar 102 by welding.

  The carrier 138 slides on the rail 136. Although not shown, the carrier 138 includes a cylinder and a cover 142 configured to cover the upper surface and side surfaces of the cylinder. The cylindrical body is inserted through the rail 136. The configurations of the carrier 138 and the rail 136 are appropriately determined in consideration of the slide performance of the carrier 138. In order to improve the sliding performance of the carrier 138, a rolling member may be provided between the inner surface of the carrier 138 and the outer surface of the rail 136.

  The buffer plate 140 is attached to the upper surface 144 of the carrier 138. The user puts his arm on the buffer plate 140. Although not shown, a sponge is placed inside the buffer plate 140. The buffer plate 140 is configured to bend when a force is applied. Since the buffer plate 140 is soft, the user can comfortably put his arm on the armrest 92.

  In the wheelchair 84, the lower end 146 of the back frame 88 is fixed to the rear side of the carrier 138 by welding. The back frame 88 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the rail 136. Since the rail 136 is fixed to the main frame 86, the back frame 88 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame 86. As described above, the pusher 90 is attached to the back frame 88. For this reason, the pusher 90 can move in the front-rear direction by the movement of the back frame 88 in the front-rear direction.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the pusher 90 is located behind the axle 106. In the wheelchair 84, the position of the pusher 90 shown in FIG. 5 is the first position. When the pusher 90 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 84. The caregiver can grasp the pusher 90 and operate the wheelchair 84.

  FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state in which the wheelchair 84 of FIG. 5 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 6, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 84. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 84. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the pusher 90 moves forward as the carrier 138 slides on the rail 136. The pusher 90 is located in front of the axle 106. In the wheelchair 84, the position of the pusher 90 shown in FIG. 6 is the second position. The pusher 90 can move between the first position and the second position. When the pusher 90 is in the second position, as in the case of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, even if the user holds the pusher 90 and uses the wheelchair 84 as a walking aid, the wheelchair 84 is moved backward. There is no inclination. The wheelchair 84 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 84 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the wheelchair 84, when the pusher 90 is in the second position, the pusher 90 is located behind the front wheel 118. Therefore, when the user grasps the pusher 90 and uses the wheelchair 84 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 118 and the main wheel 134. Even if the wheelchair 84 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 84 does not tilt backward. The safety when the wheelchair 84 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In FIG. 6, the point PA represents the center of the axle 106. The point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 90. The point P1 is the rear end of the pusher 90. In the wheelchair 84, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P1 of the pusher 90 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 90. When the pusher 90 of the wheelchair 84 extends in the width direction like the pusher 6 of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, the front end of the pusher in the front-rear direction is the same as the wheelchair 2 in FIG. The first reference position is set.

  In FIG. 6, a double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle 106 to the first reference position PB of the pusher 90 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 84, the protruding distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 84 as a walking aid can be improved. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 6, the point P <b> 2 is the front end of the pusher 90. The front end P2 is in the forefront position at the boundary 147 between the pusher 90 and the back frame 88. Point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 90. In the wheelchair 84, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P2 of the pusher 90 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 90. When the pusher 90 of the wheelchair 84 extends in the width direction like the pusher 6 of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, the front end of the pusher in the front-rear direction is the same as the wheelchair 2 in FIG. The second reference position is set. In this case, the second reference position and the first reference position are defined at the same position.

  In FIG. 6, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 118. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 118 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 84, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 84 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 7 is a side view showing a wheelchair 148 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 148. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 148. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 148 includes a main frame 150, a pair of back frames 152, a pair of pushers 154, and a pair of slide members 156 positioned between the main frame 150 and the back frame 152. The main frame 150 includes a pair of seat frames 158, a pair of first bars 160, a pair of second bars 162, a pair of third bars 164, a pair of foot frames 166, and a pair of axles 168. I have. Note that the configuration of the main frame 150 is appropriately determined in consideration of the safety and comfort of the wheelchair 148.

  The back frame 152 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 152 and the other back frame 152. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 152 forms the back surface. In this wheelchair 148, an armrest 170 extending in the front-rear direction is attached to the back frame 152. The armrest 170 includes an arm frame 172 and a buffer plate 176 attached to the upper surface 174 of the arm frame 172. A rear end 178 of the arm frame 172 is fixed to the back frame 152 by welding. Although not shown, a sponge is placed inside the buffer plate 176. The buffer plate 176 is configured to bend when a force is applied. Since the buffer plate 176 is soft, the user can comfortably place the arm on the armrest 170.

  The pusher 154 is attached to the end 180 of the back frame 152. The pusher 154 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 154 takes into account the ease of grasping of a caregiver or user. In this wheelchair 148, the pusher 154 extends in the front-rear direction.

  The seat frame 158 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat is stretched between one seat frame 158 and the other seat frame 158. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet. In other words, the seat frame 158 forms a seat surface.

  The first bar 160 extends substantially in the vertical direction. The first bar 160 is fixed to the rear end 182 of the seat frame 158 by welding.

  The second bar 162 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. On the rear side, the second bar 162 is fixed to the lower end 184 of the first bar 160 by welding. A support bar 186 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the second bar 162 by welding. A front wheel 190 (a caster in this example) is attached to the lower end 188 of the support bar 186.

  The third bar 164 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, the lower end of the third bar 164 is fixed to the second bar 162 by welding. A part of the third bar 164 overlaps the support bar 186 in the width direction. The upper end 192 of the third bar 164 is fixed to the seat frame 158 by welding. The third bar 164 increases the rigidity of the main frame 150.

  The foot frame 166 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction from the tip 194 of the seat frame 158. An upper end 196 of the foot frame 166 is fixed to the seat frame 158 by welding. On the lower side, the foot frame 166 is fixed to the tip 198 of the second bar 162 by welding. A footrest 202 is attached to the lower end 200 of the foot frame 166. When a user sits on the wheelchair 148, the user's feet are placed on the footrest 202. Although not shown, the footrest 202 is fixed to the foot frame 166 by using a hinge. The footrest 202 is foldable.

  The axle 168 is installed on the first bar 160. The main wheel 204 is attached to the axle 168. In the wheelchair 148, the main wheel 204 is located behind the front wheel 190.

  The slide member 156 is located above the main frame 150. The slide member 156 includes a rail 206 and a carrier 208. The rail 206 is positioned above the seat frame 158 and extends substantially along the seat frame 158 in the front-rear direction. In other words, the rail 206 extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame 150. In the wheelchair 148, the rail 206 is made of a round bar. Although not shown, the rear end of the rail 206 is fixed to the upper side of the first bar 160 by welding. On the front side, the rail 206 is bent vertically downward and fixed to the seat frame 158 by welding.

  The carrier 208 slides on the rail 206. Although not shown, the carrier 208 includes a top plate, two side plates, and a first pin 210. In the wheelchair 148, a rail 206 is disposed under the top plate, and the two side plates sandwich the rail 206. The first pin 210 passes through the two side plates below the rail 206. The rail 206 is surrounded by a top plate, two side plates, and a first pin 210. The configurations of the carrier 208 and the rail 206 are appropriately determined in consideration of the slide performance of the carrier 208. In order to improve the sliding performance of the carrier 208, a rolling member may be provided between the inner surface of the carrier 208 and the outer surface of the rail 206.

  In this wheelchair 148, the lower end 212 of the back frame 152 is fixed to the carrier 208 by welding. The back frame 152 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the rail 206. Since the rail 206 is fixed to the main frame 150, the back frame 152 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame 150. As described above, the pusher 154 is attached to the back frame 152. Therefore, the pusher 154 can move in the front-rear direction by the movement of the back frame 152 in the front-rear direction.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the pusher 154 is located behind the axle 168. In the wheelchair 148, the position of the pusher 154 shown in FIG. 7 is the first position. When the pusher 154 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 148. The caregiver can grasp the pusher 154 and operate the wheelchair 148.

  FIG. 8 is a side view showing a state where the wheelchair 148 of FIG. 7 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 8, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 148. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 148. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the pusher 154 moves forward as the carrier 208 slides on the rail 206. The pusher 154 is located in front of the axle 168. In the wheelchair 148, the position of the pusher 154 shown in FIG. 8 is the second position. The pusher 154 can move between the first position and the second position. When the pusher 154 is in the second position, even if the user holds the pusher 154 and uses this wheelchair 148 as a walking aid, as in the case of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. There is no inclination. The wheelchair 148 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 148 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the wheelchair 148, when the pusher 154 is in the second position, the pusher 154 is located behind the front wheel 190. Therefore, when the user grasps the pusher 154 and uses the wheelchair 148 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 190 and the main wheel 204. Even if the wheelchair 148 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 148 does not tilt backward. The safety when this wheelchair 148 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  The wheelchair 148 further includes a position fixing member 214. The position fixing member 214 includes a first flat bar 216 and a second flat bar 218. One end 220 of the first flat bar 216 is fixed to the carrier 208 with a first pin 210. The first flat bar 216 rotates about the first pin 210 with respect to the carrier 208. The other end 222 of the first flat bar 216 is fixed to one end 224 of the second flat bar 218 and the second pin 226. The second flat bar 218 rotates with respect to the first flat bar 216 around the second pin 226. The other end 228 of the second flat bar 218 is fixed to the upper side of the first bar 160 with a third pin 230. The second flat bar 218 rotates with respect to the first bar 160 about the third pin 230. As shown in FIG. 7, when the pusher 154 is in the first position, the position fixing member 214 is folded. When the pusher 154 moves from the first position to the second position, the position fixing member 214 is stretched as shown in FIG. In the wheelchair 148, the position fixing member 214 is configured to be able to hold the stretched state. For this reason, when the pusher 154 is in the second position, the pusher 154 does not unexpectedly move backward. The configuration of the position fixing member 214 is appropriately determined in consideration of the specifications of the wheelchair 148.

  In FIG. 8, the point PA represents the center of the axle 168. Point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 154. The point P1 is the rear end of the pusher 154. In the wheelchair 148, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P1 of the pusher 154 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 154.

  In FIG. 8, a double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle 168 to the first reference position PB of the pusher 154 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 148, the protrusion distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 148 as a walking aid can be enhanced. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 8, the point P2 is the front end of the pusher 154. The front end P2 is in the forefront position at the boundary 231 between the pusher 154 and the back frame 152. The point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 154. In the wheelchair 148, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P2 of the pusher 154 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 154.

  In FIG. 8, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 190. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 190 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 148, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 148 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 9 is a side view showing a wheelchair 232 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 232. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 232. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 232 includes a main frame 234, a pair of back frames 236, a pair of pushers 238, and a pair of link members 240 positioned between the main frame 234 and the back frame 236. The main frame 234 includes a pair of seat frames 242, a pair of first bars 244, a pair of second bars 246, a pair of third bars 248, a pair of foot frames 250, and a pair of axles 252. I have. The axle 252 is installed on the first bar 244. A main wheel 254 is attached to the axle 252. A front wheel 256 is attached to the front side of the second bar 246. In the wheelchair 232, the main wheel 254 is located behind the front wheel 256. The configuration of the main frame 234 is the same as that of the wheelchair 148 in FIG.

  The back frame 236 extends substantially in the vertical direction. A rear connection plate 258 protruding rearward is fixed to the lower side of the back frame 236 by welding. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 236 and the other back frame 236. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 236 forms the back surface.

  The pusher 238 is attached to the end 260 of the back frame 236. This pusher 238 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 238 takes into consideration the ease of grasping of a caregiver or a user. In this wheelchair 232, the pusher 238 extends in the front-rear direction.

  The link member 240 is located above the main frame 234. The link member 240 includes a first frame 262, an armrest 264 as a second frame, and a front frame 266. The first frame 262 is located above the seat frame 242 and extends in the front-rear direction along the seat frame 242. In other words, the first frame 262 is located above the main frame 234 and extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame 234. The armrest 264 is located further above the first frame 262 and extends in the front-rear direction. The front frame 266 extends upward. The lower end 268 of the front frame 266 is fixed to the seat frame 242 by welding. A front connecting plate 270 protruding rearward is fixed to the lower side of the front frame 266 by welding. The configuration of the link member 240 is appropriately determined in consideration of the specifications of the wheelchair 232 and the like.

  The armrest 264 includes an arm frame 272 and a buffer plate 276 attached to the upper surface 274 of the arm frame 272. Although not shown, a sponge is placed inside the buffer plate 276. The buffer plate 276 is configured to bend when a force is applied. Since the buffer plate 276 is soft, the user can place his / her arm comfortably on the armrest 264.

  In the wheelchair 232, the front portion 278 of the first frame 262 is connected to the front connecting plate 270 by the first front pin 280. In other words, the front portion 278 of the first frame 262 is connected to the lower portion 282 of the front frame 266 by the first front pin 280. The first frame 262 rotates with respect to the front frame 266 around the first front pin 280. The rear portion 284 of the first frame 262 is connected to the rear connecting plate 258 by a first rear pin 286. In other words, the rear portion 284 of the first frame 262 is connected to the lower portion 288 of the back frame 236 by the first rear pin 286. The back frame 236 rotates with respect to the first frame 262 around the first rear pin 286.

  In the wheelchair 232, the front part 290 of the arm frame 272 is connected to the upper part 292 of the front frame 266 by a second front pin 294. In other words, the front portion 296 of the armrest 264 (second frame) is connected to the upper portion 292 of the front frame 266 by the second front pin 294. The armrest 264 (second frame) rotates with respect to the front frame 266 around the second front pin 294. A rear portion 298 of the arm frame 272 is connected to a central portion 300 located above the lower portion 288 of the back frame 236 by a second rear pin 302. In other words, the rear portion 304 of the armrest 264 (second frame) is connected to the central portion 300 located above the lower portion 288 of the back frame 236 by the second rear pin 302. The back frame 236 rotates with respect to the armrest 264 (second frame) around the second rear pin 302.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the pusher 238 is located behind the axle 252. In the wheelchair 232, the position of the pusher 238 shown in FIG. 9 is the first position. When the pusher 238 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 232. The caregiver can hold the pusher 238 and operate the wheelchair 232.

  FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which the wheelchair 232 in FIG. 9 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 10, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 232. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 232. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the wheelchair 232 is used as a walking aid, the pusher 238 is positioned in front of the axle 252. In the wheelchair 232, the position of the pusher 238 shown in FIG. 10 is the second position. When the pusher 238 is in the second position, as with the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, even if the user grabs the pusher 238 and uses the wheelchair 232 as a walking aid, the wheelchair 232 is moved backward. There is no inclination. The wheelchair 232 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 232 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the wheelchair 232, when the pusher 238 is in the second position, the pusher 238 is located behind the front wheel 256. Therefore, when the user grasps the pusher 238 and uses the wheelchair 232 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 256 and the main wheel 254. Even if the wheelchair 232 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 232 does not tilt backward. The safety when this wheelchair 232 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In this wheelchair 232, when the pusher 238 is in the first position, when the pusher 238 is moved forward obliquely upward and the back frame 236 is moved forward obliquely upward, the first frame 262 causes the first front pin 280 to move. The link member 240 is folded so that the armrest 264 (second frame) rotates relative to the front frame 266 around the second front pin 294 while rotating relative to the front frame 266. ing. The pusher 238 can move to the second position by folding the link member 240.

  In this wheelchair 232, when the pusher 238 is in the second position, when the pusher 238 is moved rearward and obliquely downward and the back frame 236 is moved obliquely backward and downward, the first frame 262 moves the first front pin 280. The armrest 264 (second frame) pivots with respect to the front frame 266 around the second front pin 294 while pivoting with respect to the front frame 266, and the link member 240 is restored. Has been. By the restoration of the link member 240, the pusher 238 can move to the first position. The wheelchair 232 is configured such that the pusher 238 can move between the first position and the second position by moving the back frame 236 in the front-rear direction.

  In FIG. 10, a point PA represents the center of the axle 252. Point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 238. The point P1 is the rear end of the pusher 238. In the wheelchair 232, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P1 of the pusher 238 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 238.

  In FIG. 10, a double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle 252 to the first reference position PB of the pusher 238 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 232, the protruding distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 232 as a walking aid can be enhanced. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 10, the point P <b> 2 is the front end of the pusher 238. The front end P <b> 2 is at the forefront position at the boundary 305 between the pusher 238 and the back frame 236. The point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 238. In the wheelchair 232, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P2 of the pusher 238 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 238.

  In FIG. 10, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 256. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 256 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 232, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 232 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 11 is a side view showing a wheelchair 306 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 306. A direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 306. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 306 includes a main frame 308, a pair of pushers 310, a pair of pusher frames 312, and a pair of position adjusting means 314. The main frame 308 includes a pair of seat frames 316, a pair of back frames 318, a pair of first bars 320, a pair of second bars 322, and a pair of third bars 324. Note that the configuration of the main frame 308 is appropriately determined in consideration of the safety and comfort of the wheelchair 306.

  The seat frame 316 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat sheet 326 is stretched between one seat frame 316 and the other seat frame 316. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet 326. In other words, the seat frame 316 forms a seat surface.

  The back frame 318 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 318 and the other back frame 318. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 318 forms the back surface. In the wheelchair 306, an armrest 330 is provided on the back frame 318. The armrest 330 is fixed to the back frame 318 by welding. The user puts his arm on the armrest 330.

  The first bar 320 is located below the seat frame 316 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. The rear end 332 of the first bar 320 is fixed to the back frame 318 by welding.

  The second bar 322 is located below the first bar 320 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. A lower end 334 of the back frame 318 is fixed to the second bar 322 by welding. In the wheelchair 306, the second bar 322 and the seat frame 316 are connected by a cross member pair 336. The wheelchair 306 can be easily folded. A support bar 338 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the second bar 322 by welding. A front wheel 342 (in this example, a caster) is attached to the lower end 340 of the support bar 338. Although not shown, an axle is provided on the rear side of the second bar 322. In the wheelchair 306, the main wheel 344 is mounted on the axle. In FIG. 11, the point PA represents the center of the axle.

  The third bar 324 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction from the tip 346 of the first bar 320. The third bar 324 and the first bar 320 are connected. In the wheelchair 306, the first bar 320 and the third bar 324 are composed of a single bar. This one bar is bent at the boundary between the first bar 320 and the third bar 324. The first bar 320 and the third bar 324 may be fixed by welding. In the wheelchair 306, a foot frame 348 is attached to the lower side of the third bar 324. A footrest 352 is attached to the lower end 350 of the foot frame 348. When the user sits on the wheelchair 306, the user puts his foot on the footrest 352. Although not shown, the footrest 352 is fixed to the foot frame 348 by using a hinge. The footrest 352 is foldable.

  The pusher frame 312 is located above the main frame 308. A pusher 310 is attached to one end of the pusher frame 312. This pusher 310 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 310 takes into consideration the ease of grasping of a caregiver or a user.

  FIG. 12 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the wheelchair 306 of FIG. FIG. 12 shows the pusher frame 312, the position adjusting means 314, and the back frame 318. The position adjusting means 314 is located between the pusher frame 312 and the back frame 318. In other words, the position adjusting means 314 is located between the main frame 308 and the pusher frame 312.

  The position adjusting means 314 includes a first engaging portion 354, a second engaging portion 356, and a connecting means 358 for connecting the first engaging portion 354 and the second engaging portion 356. The connecting means 358 includes a lever 360, a washer 362, a cam receiving portion 364, a pin 366, and a support bar 368. The first engaging portion 354 is fixed to the back frame 318 by welding. In other words, the first engaging portion 354 is connected to the main frame 308. The first engaging portion 354 is a pipe. The second engagement portion 356 is located on the first engagement portion 354 and is connected to the pusher frame 312. The pusher frame 312 is fixed to the second engagement portion 356 by welding. The second engaging portion 356 is a pipe. The support bar 368 is made of a round bar material. The support bar 368 is inserted into the first engagement portion 354 and the second engagement portion 356. The lever 360 is fixed to the support bar 368 with a pin 366. The lever 360 rotates with respect to the support bar 368 around the pin 366. The lever 360 includes a cam 370. The cam receiving portion 364 includes an upper surface 372 that protrudes downward. The washer 362 accommodates the cam receiving portion 364. Although not shown, the cam receiving portion 364 and the washer 362 are provided with a through hole inserted into the support rod 368.

  In FIG. 12, the support bar 368 is fixed to the first engagement portion 354 with a screw 374. The support bar 368 is inserted into the second engagement portion 356. The lower surface 376 of the second engagement portion 356 is in contact with the upper surface 378 of the first engagement portion 354. A washer 362 and a cam receiving portion 364 are further fitted into the support rod 368. The outer surface 380 of the cam 370 is in contact with the upper surface 372 of the cam receiving portion 364. The cam 370 is clamped between the outer surface 380 of the cam 370 and the upper surface 378 of the first engagement portion 354.

  FIG. 13 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the lever 360 of the position adjusting unit 314 in FIG. 12 is rotated upward about the pin 366. In FIG. 13, the lever 360 stands up in the vertical direction. The thickness from the outer surface 382 of the pin 366 to the outer surface 380 of the cam 370 is the thickness of the cam 370. The wall thickness on the cam receiving portion 364 side changes as the lever 360 is rotated about the pin 366. In FIG. 13, this thickness is thinner than the state of FIG. The tightening between the outer surface 380 of the cam 370 and the upper surface 378 of the first engagement portion 354 by the cam 370 is released. The lever 360 and the first engagement portion 354 are loosened. As a result, the second engaging portion 356 can rotate in the horizontal direction around the support rod 368. In other words, the pusher frame 312 can rotate with respect to the main frame 308.

  As shown in FIG. 13, a fixing pin 384 is provided between the first engagement portion 354 and the second engagement portion 356. The fixing pin 384 passes through the support bar 368 in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, the upper surface 378 of the first engagement portion 354 and the lower surface 376 of the second engagement portion 356 include a recess configured to follow the outer surface of the fixing pin 384. As shown in FIG. 12, when the cam 370 is tightened between the outer surface 380 of the cam 370 and the upper surface 378 of the first engaging portion 354, the fixing pin 384 is recessed in the upper surface 378 and in the lower surface 376. It is sandwiched between. Thereby, the position of the second engagement portion 356 with respect to the first engagement portion 354 is fixed.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the pusher 310 is located behind the axle. In the wheelchair 306, the position of the pusher 310 shown in FIG. 11 is the first position. When the pusher 310 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 306. A caregiver can grasp the pusher 310 and operate the wheelchair 306.

  FIG. 14 is a side view showing a situation where the wheelchair 306 of FIG. 11 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 14, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 306. A direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 306. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 14, when the wheelchair 306 is used as a walking aid, the pusher 310 is positioned in front of the axle. In the wheelchair 306, the position of the pusher 310 shown in FIG. 14 is the second position. In the wheelchair 306, the pusher 310 can move between the second position and the first position.

  In this wheelchair 306, the operation for changing the pusher 310 from the first position to the second position is as follows. First, the tip 386 of the lever 360 is lifted, and the lever 360 is raised. The lever 360 rotates around the pin 366. As a result, the thickness of the cam 370 is reduced, so that the gap between the lever 360 and the first engagement portion 354 is loosened. The pusher 310 is lifted, and the second engaging portion 356 is raised upward. The second engaging portion 356 is rotated in the horizontal direction around the support bar 368. As a result, the pusher 310 can be rotated 180 ° in the horizontal direction and placed in the second position. Next, the tip 386 of the lever 360 is lowered downward. Thereby, the wall thickness of the cam 370 is increased, and the gap between the lever 360 and the first engagement portion 354 is tightened. The pusher 310 is fixed at the second position. In this way, the pusher 310 is changed from the first position to the second position. Thereby, the user can use this wheelchair 306 as a walking aid. By the same operation, the pusher 310 is changed from the second position to the first position. Thereby, a user who is tired from walking training can sit on the wheelchair 306 and heal his fatigue.

  In this wheelchair 306, when the pusher 310 is in the second position, even if the user grasps the pusher 310 and uses the wheelchair 306 as a walking aid, as in the case of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. The wheelchair 306 does not tilt backward. The wheelchair 306 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 306 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 14, in the wheelchair 306, when the pusher 310 is in the second position, the pusher 310 is located behind the front wheel 342. Therefore, when the user grasps the pusher 310 and uses the wheelchair 306 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 342 and the main wheel 344. Even if the wheelchair 306 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 306 does not tilt backward. The safety when the wheelchair 306 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In FIG. 14, a point PA represents the center of the axle. Point P1 is the front end of the pusher 310. The front end P1 is in the forefront position at the boundary 388 between the pusher 310 and the pusher frame 312. A point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 310. In the wheelchair 306, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P1 of the pusher 310 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 310.

  In FIG. 14, a double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle to the first reference position PB of the pusher 310 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 306, the protruding distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 306 as a walking aid can be improved. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 14, the point P <b> 2 is the rear end of the pusher 310. Point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 310. In the wheelchair 306, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P2 of the pusher 310 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 310.

  In FIG. 14, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 342. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 342 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 306, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 306 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 15 is a side view showing a wheelchair 390 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 15, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 390. A direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 390. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 390 includes a main frame 392, a pair of pushers 394, a pair of back frames 396, a pair of link members 398, and a pair of slide members 400. The main frame 392 includes a pair of seat frames 402, a pair of first bars 404, a pair of second bars 406, a pair of third bars 408, and a pair of fourth bars 410. The configuration of the main frame 392 is appropriately determined in consideration of safety, comfort, etc. of the wheelchair 390.

  The seat frame 402 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat is stretched between one seat frame 402 and the other seat frame 402. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet. In other words, the seat frame 402 forms a seat surface.

  The back frame 396 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back seat is stretched between one back frame 396 and the other back frame 396. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 396 forms the back surface.

  The pusher 394 is attached to the end of the back frame 396. This pusher 394 is grasped by a hand. The shape of the pusher 394 takes into account the ease of grasping of a caregiver or user. In this wheelchair 390, the pusher 394 extends in the front-rear direction.

  The first bar 404 is located outside the seat frame 402 in the width direction and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. The inner side in the width direction of the first bar 404 is fixed to the outer side in the width direction of the seat frame 402 by welding.

  The second bar 406 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction from the tip 412 of the first bar 404. The second bar 406 and the first bar 404 are connected. In the wheelchair 390, the first bar 404 and the second bar 406 are composed of a single bar. This one bar is bent at the boundary between the first bar 404 and the second bar 406. The first bar 404 and the second bar 406 may be fixed by welding. A footrest 416 is attached to the lower end 414 of the second bar 406. When the user sits on the wheelchair 390, the user puts his foot on the footrest 416. Although not shown, the footrest 416 is fixed to the second bar 406 by using a hinge. The footrest 416 is foldable.

  The third bar 408 is located below the first bar 404 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. The tip 418 of the third bar 408 is fixed to the second bar 406 by welding. A support bar 420 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the third bar 408 by welding. A front wheel 424 (in this example, a caster) is attached to the lower end 422 of the support bar 420. Although not shown, an axle is provided on the rear side of the second bar 406. In the wheelchair 390, the main wheel 426 is mounted on the axle. In FIG. 15, the point PA represents the center of the axle.

  The fourth bar 410 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, the lower end of the fourth bar 410 is fixed to the third bar 408 by welding. An upper end 428 of the fourth bar 410 is fixed to the first bar 404 by welding. The fourth bar 410 increases the rigidity of the main frame 392.

  The link member 398 bridges the main frame 392 and the back frame 396. The link member 398 includes an armrest 430 and a fifth bar 432. The armrest 430 includes an arm frame 434 and a buffer plate 436. The arm frame 434 is connected to the back frame 396 using a connector 438.

  The connector 438 includes a concave portion 440, a pin 442, and a convex portion 444. Although not shown, the recess 440 includes a bottom plate and two side plates. The outline of the bottom plate is substantially rectangular. The two side plates face each other and stand in the same direction from the edge of the bottom plate. The two side plates are provided with holes through which the pins 442 can be inserted. The convex portion 444 includes a bottom plate and one fixed plate that stands up with respect to the bottom plate. The fixed plate is disposed at the center of the bottom plate. The fixing plate is provided with a hole through which the pin 442 can be inserted. The back surface of the bottom plate of the recess 440 is welded to the back frame 396. In the wheelchair 390, the recess 440 is fixed to the back frame 396. The rear surface of the bottom plate of the convex portion 444 is welded to the rear end 446 of the arm frame 434. The convex portion 444 is fixed to the rear end 446. The fixing plate of the convex portion 444 is inserted between the two side plates of the concave portion 440. By inserting the holes of the convex portion 444 and the concave portion 440 into the pin 442, the convex portion 444 and the concave portion 440 are connected. The convex portion 444 rotates with respect to the concave portion 440 around the pin 442. Accordingly, the arm frame 434 connected to the back frame 396 by the joint 438 rotates about the pin 442 with respect to the back frame 396. In other words, the link member 398 is configured to rotate with respect to the back frame 396.

  The fifth bar 432 is coupled to the arm frame 434 using another joint 438a having the same configuration as the joint 438 described above. The convex portion 444a of the connector 438a is fixed to the upper end 448 of the fifth bar 432 by welding. A concave portion 440a of a joint 438a is fixed to the arm frame 434 by welding. The fifth bar 432 rotates with respect to the arm frame 434 around the pin 442a of the connector 438a. The fifth bar 432 is connected to the first bar 404 using a similar connector 438b. The convex portion 444b of the connector 438b is fixed to the lower end 450 of the fifth bar 432 by welding. The recess 440b of the connector 438b is fixed to the first bar 404 by welding. The fifth bar 432 rotates with respect to the first bar 404 around the pin 442b of the connector 438b. In other words, the link member 398 is configured to rotate with respect to the main frame 392.

  The slide member 400 includes a rail 452, a sixth bar 454, and a carrier 456 that can move along the rail 452. The rail 452 extends obliquely upward and forward from the vicinity of the axle. The rail 452 is bent in an arc shape. Although not shown, the lower end of the rail 452 is fixed to the third bar 408 by welding in the vicinity of the axle. In the wheelchair 390, the rail 452 and the first bar 404 are composed of a single bar. The sixth bar 454 is connected to the third bar 408 using a connector 438c. The convex portion 444c of the connector 438c is fixed to the lower end 458 of the sixth bar 454 by welding. A concave portion 440c of the connector 438c is fixed to the third bar 408 by welding. The sixth bar 454 rotates with respect to the third bar 408 around the pin 442c of the connector 438c. In other words, the sixth bar 454 rotates with respect to the main frame 392. The carrier 456 is located between the sixth bar 454 and the back frame 396.

  FIG. 16 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the wheelchair 390 of FIG. FIG. 17 is an enlarged front view showing the same portion as FIG. In FIG. 16, the direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 390. The front side of the paper surface is the outside in the width direction of the wheelchair 390. In FIG. 17, the left-right direction is the width direction of the wheelchair 390. The right side of this page is the outside of the wheelchair 390 in the width direction. 16 and 17 show the slide member 400 and the back frame 396. The carrier 456 includes a first side plate 460, a second side plate 462, a pair of rollers 464, a pair of bolts 466 and nuts 468, and a pair of fixing portions 470. The first side plate 460 is disposed outside the wheelchair 390 in the width direction. The first side plate 460 is provided with a lever 472 configured to be grasped by a hand and two guide holes 474 positioned so as to sandwich the rail 452 therebetween. The second side plate 462 is disposed so that the rail 452 is positioned between the first side plate 460 and the second side plate 462. The second side plate 462 is also provided with two guide holes 474 positioned so as to sandwich the rail 452 therebetween. The roller 464 includes a pair of wheels 476. A hole through which the shaft 478 of the bolt 466 can be inserted is formed at the center of the wheel 476. In the slide member 400, the shaft 478 of the bolt 466 corresponds to the axle of the wheel 476. The fixing portion 470 includes a bottom plate 480 and a fixing plate 482 that stands at the center of the bottom plate 480. The fixing plate 482 has a hole through which the shaft 478 of the bolt 466 can be inserted.

  In the wheelchair 390, one fixing portion 470 is fixed to the back frame 396. Specifically, the fixing portion 470 is fixed by welding by inserting a bottom plate 480 into a pipe constituting the back frame 396. The other fixing portion 470 is fixed to the sixth bar 454. Specifically, the fixing portion 470 is fixed by welding by inserting the bottom plate 480 into a pipe constituting the sixth bar 454. The fixed plate 482 is sandwiched between a pair of wheels 476 that form a roller 464. The pair of rollers 464 sandwich the rail 452. The roller 464 is sandwiched between the first side plate 460 and the second side plate 462. The shaft 478 of the bolt 466 passes through the guide hole 474 of the first side plate 460, the hole of one wheel 476, the hole of the fixing portion 470, the hole of the other wheel 476, and the guide hole 474 of the second side plate 462. The shaft 478 of the bolt 466 is screwed into the nut 468 outside the second side plate 462. In this way, the slide member 400 is assembled. In the wheelchair 390, the lower end 484 of the back frame 396 is connected to the carrier 456 by the bolt 466. The back frame 396 rotates with respect to the carrier 456 around the bolt 466. The upper end 486 of the sixth bar 454 is connected to the carrier 456 by the bolt 466. The sixth bar 454 rotates with respect to the carrier 456 around the bolt 466.

  As described above, the link member 398 is configured to rotate with respect to the main frame 392 and the back frame 396. Therefore, when the carrier 456 moves along the rail 452, the back frame 396 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame 392. As a result, the pusher 394 can move in the front-rear direction.

  In this wheelchair 390, the roller 464 comes into contact with the rail 452. The carrier 456 can move smoothly along the rail 452. The guide holes 474 on the side of the back frame 396 of the first side plate 460 and the second side plate 462 are long in the longitudinal direction of the rail 452. The guide holes 474 on the side of the sixth bar 454 of the first side plate 460 and the second side plate 462 are long in the radial direction of the rail 452. Thereby, the distance between the bolt 466 on the back frame 396 side and the bolt 466 on the sixth bar 454 side can be adjusted appropriately. Therefore, the back frame 396 can easily move in the front-rear direction.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the pusher 394 is located behind the axle. In the wheelchair 390, the position of the pusher 394 shown in FIG. 15 is the first position. When the pusher 394 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 390. The caregiver can hold the pusher 394 and operate the wheelchair 390.

  FIG. 18 is a side view showing a situation in which the wheelchair 390 of FIG. 15 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 18, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 390. A direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 390. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 18, when the wheelchair 390 is used as a walking aid, the pusher 394 is positioned forward of the axle. In the wheelchair 390, the position of the pusher 394 shown in FIG. 18 is the second position. In the wheelchair 390, the pusher 394 can move between the second position and the first position. When the pusher 394 is in the second position, as in the case of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, even if the user holds the pusher 394 and uses the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid, the wheelchair 390 is moved backward. There is no inclination. The wheelchair 390 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 390 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the wheelchair 390, when the pusher 394 is in the second position, the pusher 394 is located behind the front wheel 424. Therefore, when the user grabs the pusher 394 and uses the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 424 and the main wheel 426. Even if the wheelchair 390 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 390 does not tilt backward. The safety when the wheelchair 390 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In the wheelchair 390, a position fixing portion 488 is provided below the fifth bar 432. The position fixing portion 488 includes a key portion 490 fixed to the fifth bar 432 and a key hole portion 492 fixed to the first bar 404. Although not shown, the key portion 490 includes a knob, a fixing pin extending from the knob in the width direction of the wheelchair 390, and a cylinder into which the fixing pin can be inserted. This tube is fixed to the fifth bar 432 by welding. The keyhole portion 492 is plate-shaped and includes an upper hole (not shown) and a lower hole 494. The lower side of the keyhole portion 492 is fixed to the first bar 404 by welding. The upper hole and the lower hole 494 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the key hole portion 492. The fixing pin can be inserted into the upper hole and the lower hole 494. In the wheelchair 390, when the fixing pin is inserted into the upper hole or the lower hole 494, the position of the fifth bar 432 with respect to the first bar 404 is fixed. Thereby, the movement of the back frame 396 (carrier 456) is prevented. As shown in FIG. 15, when the pusher 394 is in the first position, the fixing pin is inserted into the upper hole. When the user is seated on the wheelchair 390, the back frame 396 does not move forward unexpectedly. The user can use the wheelchair 390 safely. As shown in FIG. 18, when the pusher 394 is in the second position, the fixing pin is inserted into the prepared hole 494. When the user uses the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid, the back frame 396 does not move unexpectedly backward. The user can safely use the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid.

  In this wheelchair 390, the operation for changing the pusher 394 from the first position to the second position is as follows. First, the knob is pulled outward in the width direction, and the fixing pin is removed from the upper hole. Next, the lever 472 of the carrier 456 is moved forward. As a result, the back frame 396 moves forward. Next, the knob is pushed inward in the width direction, and the fixing pin is inserted into the lower hole 494. Thereby, the pusher 394 is fixed to the second position. Thereby, the user can use this wheelchair 390 as a walking aid. By the same operation, the pusher 394 is changed from the second position to the first position. In this case, the position of the fixing pin is changed from the lower hole 494 to the upper hole, and the back frame 396 is moved rearward. In this wheelchair 390, a user who is tired from walking training can sit on the wheelchair 390 and heal his fatigue.

  In FIG. 18, point PA represents the center of the axle. Point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 394. The point P1 is the rear end of the pusher 394. In the wheelchair 390, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P1 of the pusher 394 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 394. In the case where the rear end P1 of the pusher 394 is located behind the center PA of the axle, a position 6 cm away from the second reference position PC, which will be described later, along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 394, The first reference position PB of the pusher 394 is set.

  In FIG. 18, a double arrow line DA represents a protruding distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle to the first reference position PB of the pusher 394 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 390, the protruding distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid are improved. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 18, the point P <b> 2 is the front end of the pusher 394. The front end P <b> 2 is in the forefront position at a boundary 496 between the pusher 394 and the back frame 396. The point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 394. In the wheelchair 390, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P2 of the pusher 394 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 394.

  In FIG. 18, the point PD represents the center of the front wheel 424. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 424 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 390, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 390 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  FIG. 19 is a side view showing a wheelchair 498 according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 19, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 498. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 498. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  The wheelchair 498 includes a main frame 500, a pair of pushers 502, a pair of back frames 504, a pair of link members 506, and a pair of slide members 508. The main frame 500 includes a pair of seat frames 510, a pair of first bars 512, a pair of second bars 514, a pair of third bars 516, and a pair of fourth bars 518. Note that the configuration of the main frame 500 is appropriately determined in consideration of safety, comfort, and the like of the wheelchair 498.

  The seat frame 510 extends substantially in the front-rear direction. Although not shown, a seat sheet 520 is stretched between one seat frame 510 and the other seat frame 510. The user places the buttocks on the seat sheet 520. In other words, the seat frame 510 forms a seat surface.

  The back frame 504 extends substantially in the vertical direction. Although not shown, a back sheet is stretched between one back frame 504 and the other back frame 504. The user leans his back against this back sheet. In other words, the back frame 504 forms the back surface. In the wheelchair 498, an armrest 522 is provided on the back frame 504. The armrest 522 is fixed to the back frame 504 by welding. The user puts his arm on the armrest 522.

  The pusher 502 is attached to the end of the back frame 504. This pusher 502 is held by a hand. The shape of the pusher 502 takes into consideration the ease of grasping of a caregiver or a user. In this wheelchair 498, the pusher 502 extends in the front-rear direction.

  The first bar 512 is located below the seat frame 510 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. A connection plate 524 is disposed between the first bar 512 and the seat frame 510. The upper part of the connection plate 524 is fixed to the seat frame 510 by welding. The lower part of the connection plate 524 is fixed to the first bar 512 by welding. In other words, the first bar 512 is fixed to the seat frame 510.

  The second bar 514 extends substantially downward in the vertical direction from the tip 526 of the first bar 512. The second bar 514 and the first bar 512 are connected. In the wheelchair 498, the first bar 512 and the second bar 514 are composed of a single bar. This one bar is bent at the boundary between the first bar 512 and the second bar 514. The first bar 512 and the second bar 514 may be fixed by welding. A foot frame 528 is attached to the lower side of the second bar 514. A footrest 532 is attached to the lower end 530 of the foot frame 528. When the user sits on the wheelchair 498, the user puts his foot on the footrest 532. Although not shown, the footrest 532 is fixed to the foot frame 528 by using a hinge. The footrest 532 is a foldable type.

  The third bar 516 is located below the first bar 512 and extends substantially in the front-rear direction. The tip 534 of the third bar 516 is fixed to the second bar 514 by welding. A support bar 536 extending in the vertical direction is fixed to the front side of the third bar 516 by welding. A front wheel 540 (a caster in this example) is attached to the lower end 538 of the support bar 536. Although not shown, an axle is provided on the rear side of the third bar 516. In the wheelchair 498, the main wheel 542 is mounted on the axle. In FIG. 19, the point PA represents the center of the axle.

  The fourth bar 518 extends substantially in the vertical direction. The lower end 544 of the fourth bar 518 is fixed to the third bar 516 by welding. The upper end 546 of the fourth bar 518 is fixed to the first bar 512 by welding. The fourth bar 518 increases the rigidity of the main frame 500.

  The slide member 508 includes a rail 548 and a carrier 550. The rail 548 extends obliquely forward and upward from the vicinity of the axle. An upper end 552 of the rail 548 is fixed to the first bar 512 by welding. Although not shown, the lower side of the rail 548 is fixed to the third bar 516 by welding. The rail 548 is fixed to the main frame 500. The rail 548 includes a slit 554 that is long in the longitudinal direction of the rail 548, an upper hole 556, and a lower hole 558 (see FIG. 20 described later). The upper hole 556 and the lower hole 558 are arranged at an equal distance from the edge 560 of the slit 554. Although not shown, the carrier 550 includes a bolt and a nut into which a shaft of the bolt is screwed. This shaft passes through this slit 554. The carrier 550 can move along the slit 554.

  Although not shown, in the wheelchair 498, a connection hole through which a bolt shaft can be inserted is provided at the lower end 562 of the back frame 504. In the wheelchair 498, the connecting hole and the slit 554 are inserted through the shaft, and the carrier 550 is assembled. In this way, the back frame 504 is connected to the carrier 550. In the wheelchair 498, the lower end 562 of the back frame 504 can move along the rail 548.

  The link member 506 is composed of a single bar. An upper end 564 of the link member 506 is connected to the back frame 504 using a pin 566. The link member 506 rotates with respect to the back frame 504 around the pin 566. A lower end 568 of the link member 506 is connected to the rail 548 using a pin 570. As described above, the rail 548 is fixed to the main frame 500. The link member 506 rotates with respect to the main frame 500 around the pin 570. The link member 506 bridges the main frame 500 and the back frame 504. Therefore, in the wheelchair 498, when the lower end 562 of the back frame 504 moves along the rail 548, the back frame 504 can move in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame 500. Thereby, the pusher 502 can move in the front-rear direction.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the pusher 502 is located behind the axle. In the wheelchair 498, the position of the pusher 502 shown in FIG. 19 is the first position. When the pusher 502 is in the first position, the user can sit on the wheelchair 498. The caregiver can hold the pusher 502 and operate the wheelchair 498.

  FIG. 20 is a side view showing a situation where the wheelchair 498 of FIG. 19 is used as a walking aid. In FIG. 20, the left-right direction is the front-rear direction of the wheelchair 498. The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is the width direction of the wheelchair 498. The vertical direction is the vertical direction.

  As shown in FIG. 20, when the wheelchair 498 is used as a walking aid, the pusher 502 is positioned in front of the axle. In the wheelchair 498, the position of the pusher 502 shown in FIG. 20 is the second position. In the wheelchair 498, the pusher 502 can move between the second position and the first position. When the pusher 502 is in the second position, as in the case of the wheelchair 2 in FIG. 1, even if the user grasps the pusher 502 and uses the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid, the wheelchair 498 is moved backward. There is no inclination. The wheelchair 498 can support a part of the weight of the user. This wheelchair 498 can also be safely used as a walking aid.

  As shown in FIG. 20, in the wheelchair 498, when the pusher 502 is in the second position, the pusher 502 is located behind the front wheel 540. Therefore, when the user grasps the pusher 502 and uses the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid, a part of the weight of the user is effectively supported by the front wheel 540 and the main wheel 542. Even if the wheelchair 498 supports a part of the weight of the user, the wheelchair 498 does not tilt backward. The safety when the wheelchair 498 is used as a walking aid is further enhanced.

  In the wheelchair 498, the back frame 504 further includes a key portion 572 above the carrier 550. The key portion 572 includes a knob 574 and a fixing pin (not shown) extending from the knob 574 in the width direction of the wheelchair 498. The fixing pin can be inserted into the upper hole 556 and the lower hole 558 described above. In the wheelchair 498, when the fixing pin is inserted into the upper hole 556 or the lower hole 558, the movement of the carrier 550 along the rail 548 is stopped. Thereby, the position of the back frame 504 with respect to the main frame 500 is fixed. As shown in FIG. 19, when the pusher 502 is in the first position, the fixing pin is inserted into the prepared hole 558. When the user is seated on the wheelchair 498, the back frame 504 does not move forward unexpectedly. The user can use the wheelchair 498 safely. As shown in FIG. 20, when the pusher 502 is in the second position, the fixing pin is inserted into the upper hole 556. When the user uses the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid, the back frame 504 does not move unexpectedly backward. The user can safely use the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid.

  In this wheelchair 498, the operation for changing the pusher 502 from the first position to the second position is as follows. First, the knob 574 is pulled outward in the width direction, and the fixing pin is pulled out from the lower hole 558. Next, the back frame 504 is moved forward. Next, the knob 574 is pushed inward in the width direction, and the fixing pin is inserted into the upper hole 556. Thereby, the pusher 502 is fixed to the second position. Thereby, the user can use this wheelchair 498 as a walking aid. By the same operation, the pusher 502 is changed from the second position to the first position. In this case, the position of the fixing pin is changed from the upper hole 556 to the lower hole 558, and the back frame 504 is moved rearward. In this wheelchair 498, a user who is tired from walking training can sit down on the wheelchair 498 and heal his fatigue.

  In FIG. 20, the point PA represents the center of the axle. A point PB represents the first reference position of the pusher 502. A point P1 is the rear end of the pusher 502. In the wheelchair 498, the first reference position PB is defined at a position 3 cm away from the rear end P1 of the pusher 502 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 502. In the case where the rear end P1 of the pusher 502 is located behind the center PA of the axle, a position 6 cm away from the second reference position PC described later along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 502 is The first reference position PB of the pusher 502 is used.

  In FIG. 20, a double arrow line DA represents a protrusion distance in the front-rear direction from the center PA of the axle to the first reference position PB of the pusher 502 positioned forward. In the wheelchair 498, the protruding distance DA is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the protruding distance DA to 1 cm or more, the safety and operability of the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid are improved. In this respect, the protrusion distance DA is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In FIG. 20, point P <b> 2 is the front end of the pusher 502. The front end P <b> 2 is in the foremost position at a boundary 576 between the pusher 502 and the back frame 504. A point PC represents the second reference position of the pusher 502. In the wheelchair 498, the second reference position PC is defined at a position 3 cm away from the front end P2 of the pusher 502 along the longitudinal direction of the pusher 502.

  In FIG. 20, a point PD represents the center of the front wheel 540. A one-dot chain line LA is a center line passing through the center PD. When the front wheel 540 is a free wheel, the center line LA is determined with the center PD positioned most rearward. A double arrow line DB represents a distance in the front-rear direction from the center line LA to the second reference position PC. In the wheelchair 498, the distance DB is preferably 1 cm or more. By setting the distance DB to 1 cm or more, the safety of the wheelchair 498 as a walking aid is further enhanced. From this viewpoint, the distance DB is more preferably 5 cm or more, and particularly preferably 10 cm or more.

  In the wheelchair 498, the seat frame 510 forming the seating surface is preferably composed of a front bar, a rear bar, and a hinge connecting the front bar and the rear bar. In this case, the seat frame 510 is disposed on the inner side in the width direction of the first bar 512. The front bar is fixed to the first bar 512 (main frame 500). The rear bar is attached to the hinge so that the rear bar can be rotated in the vertical direction with respect to the front bar about the rotation axis of the hinge. Particularly preferably, the rear bar is attached to the hinge such that its rear end is lowered downward. Accordingly, when the wheelchair 498 is folded while the pusher 502 is in the second position, interference between the back seat and the seat frame 510 can be prevented. The wheelchair 498 provided with such a seat frame 510 can be folded compactly.

  The present invention can be applied to both self-propelled wheelchairs and assistive wheelchairs.

FIG. 1 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view showing a part of the wheelchair of FIG. FIG. 3 is a side view showing a state where the wheelchair of FIG. 1 is used. FIG. 4 is a side view showing a state where the wheelchair of FIG. 1 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 5 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state in which the wheelchair of FIG. 5 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 7 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a side view showing a state in which the wheelchair of FIG. 7 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 9 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which the wheelchair of FIG. 9 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 11 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the wheelchair of FIG. FIG. 13 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the lever of the position adjusting means in FIG. 12 is rotated upward about the pin. FIG. 14 is a side view showing a situation where the wheelchair of FIG. 11 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 15 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is an enlarged side view showing a part of the wheelchair of FIG. FIG. 17 is an enlarged front view showing the same portion as FIG. FIG. 18 is a side view showing a situation where the wheelchair of FIG. 15 is used as a walking aid. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a wheelchair according to still another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a side view showing a situation where the wheelchair of FIG. 19 is used as a walking aid.

Explanation of symbols

2, 84, 148, 232, 306, 390, 498 ... Wheelchair 4, 86, 150, 234, 308, 392, 500 ... Main frame 6, 90, 154, 238, 310, 394, 502 ... Pusher 8, 312 ... Pusher frame 10, 314 ... Position adjustment means 12, 94, 158, 242, 316, 402, 510 ... Seat frame 14, 88, 152, 236, 318, 396 504: Back frame 22, 106, 168, 252 ... Axle 24, 92, 170, 264, 330, 430, 522 ... Armrest 26, 172, 272, 434 ... Arm frame 28, 140 176, 276, 436 ... buffer plate 34, 114, 186, 338, 420, 536 ... support bar 38, 118, 19 256, 342, 424, 540 ... front wheels 50, 134, 204, 254, 344, 426, 542 ... main wheels 54, 354 ... first engagement part 56, 356 ... second engagement Joint part 58, 366, 442, 442a, 442b, 442c, 566, 570 ... pin 64 ... male screw 66, 68 ... hole 70 ... female screw 72, 76 ... surface 74, 78 ... Unevenness 80 ... Caregiver 82 ... User 136, 206, 452, 548 ... Rail 138, 208, 456, 550 ... Carrier 142 ... Cover 144, 174, 274, 372 378: upper surface 147, 231, 305, 388, 496, 576 ... boundary 156, 400, 508 ... slide member 210 ... first pin 214 ... position fixing member 216 ... First flat bar 218 ... Second flat bar 226 ... Second pin 230 ... Third pin 240, 398, 506 ... Link member 258 ... Rear connecting plate 262 ... First frame 266 ... Front frame 270 ... Front connecting plate 278, 290, 296 ... Front part 280 ... First front pin 282, 288 ... Lower part 284, 298, 304 ... Rear part 286 ... First rear pin 292 ... Upper part 294 ... Second front pin 300 ... Center part 302 ... Second rear pin 326, 520 ... Seat seat 336 ... Cross member Pair 358 ... Connecting means 360 ... Lever 362 ... Washer 364 ... Cam receiving portion 368 ... Support bar 370 ... Cam 374 ... Screw 376 ... Lower surface 380, 382 ...・Outer surface 384 ... Fixing pin 400, 508 ... Slide member 432 ... Fifth bar 438, 438a, 438b, 438c ... Joiner 440, 440a, 440b, 440c ... Recess 444, 444a, 444b 444c ... convex portion 454 ... sixth bar 460 ... first side plate 462 ... second side plate 464 ... roller 466 ... bolt 468 ... nut 470 ... fixed portion 472 ... Lever 474 ... Guiding hole 476 ... Wheel 478 ... Shaft 480 ... Bottom plate 482 ... Fixed plate 488 ... Position fixing part 490, 572 ... Key part 492 ... Keyhole part 494, 558 ... Lower hole 524 ... Connection plate 554 ... Slit 556 ... Upper hole 560 ... Edge 574 ... Knob

Claims (13)

It has a main frame and a pusher that can be held by hand.
This main frame has an axle on which the main wheels are mounted,
The pusher is configured to be able to move between a first position and a second position located in front of the first position.
When this pusher is in this first position, this pusher is located behind this axle,
When the pusher is in the second position, the wheelchair is located in front of the axle. It further comprises a pusher frame to which the above pusher is attached,
The pusher frame is configured to be rotatable with respect to the main frame,
The wheelchair according to claim 1, wherein the pusher can move between the first position and the second position by the rotation of the pusher frame. A position adjusting means;
The wheelchair according to claim 2, wherein the position adjusting means is located between the main frame and the pusher frame. The position adjusting means connects the first engagement portion connected to the main frame, the second engagement portion connected to the pusher frame, and the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion. With a pin,
The wheelchair according to claim 3, wherein the second engaging portion is rotatable with respect to the first engaging portion around the pin. It further includes a pair of back frames forming the back surface,
The pusher is attached to this back frame,
The back frame is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction with respect to the main frame,
The wheelchair according to claim 1, wherein the pusher can move between the first position and the second position by the movement of the back frame in the front-rear direction. A slide member,
This slide member is located between the main frame and the back frame,
The slide member includes a rail extending in the front-rear direction along the main frame, and a carrier that can slide the rail.
The wheelchair according to claim 5, wherein the back frame is fixed to the carrier.   The wheelchair according to claim 6, wherein the slide member is located above the main frame.   The wheelchair according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the slide member is an armrest. A link member,
This link member is located between the main frame and the back frame,
By the folding of the link member, the pusher in the first position can be moved to the second position,
The wheelchair according to claim 5, wherein the pusher in the second position can be moved to the first position by restoring the link member. The link member is positioned above the main frame and extends in the front-rear direction along the main frame; and the link member is positioned further above the first frame and extends in the front-rear direction. A second frame and a front frame having a lower end fixed to the main frame and extending upward;
The front part of the first frame is connected to the lower part of the front frame with a first front pin,
The rear part of the first frame is connected to the lower part of the back frame with a first rear pin,
The front part of the second frame is connected to the upper part of the front frame with a second front pin,
The rear part of the second frame is connected to the central part located above the lower part of the back frame with a second rear pin,
When the pusher is in the first position, when the pusher is moved diagonally forward and upward and the back frame is moved diagonally forward and upward, the first frame is centered around the first front pin. The second frame is configured to rotate with respect to the front frame around the second front pin while the link member is folded.
By folding the link member, the pusher moves to the second position,
When this pusher is in this second position, when this pusher is moved diagonally backward and downward and this back frame moves diagonally downward and backward, this first frame is centered around this first front pin The second frame is configured to rotate with respect to the front frame around the second front pin while the link member is restored.
The wheelchair according to claim 9, wherein the pusher moves to the first position by the restoration of the link member.   The wheelchair according to claim 10, wherein the second frame is an armrest. The position adjusting means connects the first engagement portion connected to the main frame, the second engagement portion connected to the pusher frame, and the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion. A support bar,
The support bar is fixed to the first engagement portion,
The wheelchair according to claim 3, wherein the second engagement portion is configured to be able to turn in the horizontal direction around the support rod. A link member and a slide member;
This link member spans between the main frame and the back frame,
The link member is configured to rotate with respect to the main frame,
The link member is configured to rotate with respect to the back frame,
The slide member includes a rail and a carrier that can move along the rail.
This rail extends obliquely upward and forward from the vicinity of the axle,
The wheelchair according to claim 5, wherein the back frame is connected to the carrier.

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