JP6548135B2 - Rails, as well as sets of rails and runners - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a rail useful for causing a runner to travel (or guide) in a predetermined direction using a predetermined branch road; a runner capable of traveling smoothly even if the travel path of the rail is branched; On the set with the runner.

  A runner, such as an elderly person or a physically disabled person, who can move a runner on a rail attached to a ceiling surface or ceiling side space, attach a body restraint to the runner, and hold the body restraint Devices have been proposed to help people move around the home or in a facility.

  For example, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-26254 (Patent Document 1), a traveling rail having a C-shaped cross section, traveling means movable along the traveling rail, and a connection supported downward by the traveling means An elderly person moving device is described which includes a rod and an elongated pipe-like handrail fitted in and out along the outer circumferential surface of the connecting rod in the longitudinal direction. In this document, a traveling means includes a disc-like runner body rotatably mounted around a spindle, a plurality of ball casters attached to the bottom side peripheral edge and the side edge of the disc-like runner body, and a disc It is described that it has a non-slip means stuck to the top plate portion of the runner body, is slidable in the recess of the traveling rail, and that the T-shaped branching mechanism can change its direction and branch. ing. Furthermore, in this document, one corner of the peripheral portion of the top plate portion of the disc-like runner body collides with the ceiling side of the traveling rail to produce a stopper action, and the antislip means makes contact with the ceiling side of the traveling rail It is described that the fall action of the user is prevented because the stopper action occurs.

  However, because a plurality of ball casters are provided, the disk-like runner body is not only easy to slide on the running surface when the user slightly moves the running means, but also the runner body is unstable when a load is applied. It is easy to slide in the longitudinal direction of the rail in a steady state. Therefore, when the user is in a posture of tilting (for example, toppling) excessively forward and backward, the runner body may not slide and the user may be unable to stably walk while maintaining balance. On the other hand, if a plurality of ball casters are removed to reduce the runnability of the runner, a large amount of power is required for walking, and the user can not walk smoothly.

  Furthermore, at the junction where the traveling rail branches into a substantially T-shape, the user must move to this approximately T-shaped intersection, and then change the direction and move to move smoothly. I can not convert. In particular, in the process of turning, the support shaft of the traveling means is easily brought into contact with the corner portion of the branching device and locked, so that users, particularly elderly people, can not turn smoothly. Furthermore, in the T-shaped branch portion, the width of the traveling path widens, so the runner body can easily derail, preventing smooth direction change and branch operation.

  Rails and runners are also used in the fields of shielding and partitioning (opening and closing) of a predetermined space, transportation of articles, transportation and the like. In JP-A 2003-250694 (Patent Document 2), a shaft portion inserted between the rails of the curtain rail and the upper end of the shaft portion are horizontally rotatably or integrally connected, and the inside of the rail is A suspension runner is described, which comprises a running part which is locked on the upper surface of the rail and a suspending part which is horizontally rotatably connected to the lower end of the shaft and which suspends a suspended object. . This document also describes that when traveling the curved portion of the curtain rail, the traveling portion is horizontally rotated to displace the direction.

  However, even in this runner, the contact resistance between the running part and the track is small and the track is slippery, and the user may not be able to walk stably while maintaining balance. Therefore, when the runner is connected to a body restraint worn by the elderly person or the like, the suspended runner can not be moved following the movement of the gravity center of the elderly person. Furthermore, at the bifurcation where the rail is branched in a T-like form, the runner's shaft tends to get stuck at the bifurcation, and even if the elderly person tries to turn in a predetermined direction, the hanging runner I can not follow and I can not change the direction smoothly.

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2006-26254 (Claims, [0010], [0025]-[0032], [FIG. 6], [FIG. 8]) Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2003-250694 (Claims, [0012], [FIG. 1]-[FIG. 4])

  Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a rail useful for causing a runner to travel or guide in a predetermined direction; a runner capable of traveling smoothly even if the rail travel path is branched; and such a rail and runner To provide a set.

  Another object of the present invention is a rail on which a runner can travel smoothly and stably even when a predetermined load is applied; It is about providing a runnable runner; and a set of such rails and runners.

  Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a set of rails and runners which can travel smoothly and stably following (or following) the movement of the user without excessively sliding the rails. It is in.

  Another object of the present invention is a set of rails useful for assisting the movement of users who are difficult to walk such as elderly people and disabled people, and a set of runners (for example, runners for walking or movement assistance devices) It is to provide.

  As a result of intensive studies to achieve the above problems, the inventor of the present invention is provided with a looped traveling path and a plurality of three or more branch traveling paths extending at intervals in the circumferential direction through the looped traveling path. The runner can travel smoothly and be able to change direction by using a rail, and the wheel member (or bearing member) capable of contacting the travel path (or travel wall) of the rail can be rotated to a plurality of shaft members. In the runner having a form in which the plurality of shaft members and the connection or connection means for connecting or attaching the movable body or the transported body are mounted to the holding unit, the slit-like opening at the branch portion of the rail When a guiding guide member capable of guiding the traveling direction by contacting the inner wall of the guide is used, the branch direction of the rail is smooth even if a predetermined load is applied, particularly the branch direction where the width of the traveling path is expanded. To Switchable and smoothly traveling; mounting or attaching a sliding contactor (or wheel) at least slidable in contact with the traveling path (or traveling wall) of the rail to the shaft member, the shaft member The present invention is completed by finding that the runners do not slide excessively when they are attached to the holding unit (or mounting unit) at intervals, and that the runners travel smoothly and stably even when a predetermined load is applied. did.

  That is, the rail (A1) of the present invention extends inward and / or outward at intervals along the circumferential direction through the looped traveling path on which the runner can travel and the looped traveling path, and It has at least three bifurcated travel paths on which the runner can travel. Such a rail can also be referred to as a bifurcated rail unit or bifurcated rail set.

  Such a rail (branch rail unit or branch rail set) is separated by a looped traveling path in the form of a polygonal frame, an oval frame or a circular frame, and an outer circumferential surface of the looped traveling path. It may have a branch runway extending in a direction.

  The bifurcated traveling path is a connecting traveling path integrally formed with the looped traveling path through the looped traveling path, and a connecting traveling path connectable to the connecting traveling path (e.g. (A connecting traveling path) which can be positioned and connected. In addition, the corner portion of the intersection of the looped travel path and the branch travel path may be curved.

  Furthermore, the looped travel path may include a curved convergence path (curved convergence path that curves and converges to the branch travel path) adjacent to each other and that curves and converges to the branch travel path. In addition, in the looped traveling path, the opposing area (for example, the convergence area of the curved convergence path (adjacent to the branching traveling path) facing the branching traveling path (the area located between two adjacent branching traveling paths) A reinforcing plate may be attached to the area located between the two curved convergence paths) and in the opposite area facing the branch path.

  The rail (branch rail unit or branch rail set) extends inward from the rail main body having a hollow cylindrical cross section having a slit-like opening and the opposed inner wall portion of the rail main body, and at least the runner can travel One traveling wall may be provided. At least the looped traveling path may be formed by the first rail member, and the first rail member is formed of a hollow cylindrical rail main body having a slit-like opening and an inner wall opposite to the rail main body, The traveling surface has the same or different height position and extends inward, and includes a traveling wall or traveling path on which the runner can travel (for example, one or more pairs of traveling walls on which the runner can travel) It is also good. For example, a pair of running walls (or lower wall) forming a slit-like opening and another pair of running walls (or upper wall) extending from the inner wall at a position higher than the pair of running walls It is also good.

  The branch travel path (including the connection travel path) may be formed by a second rail member. The second rail member extends inward from the rail main body having a hollow section having a slit-like opening and the inner wall opposite to the rail main body with the same or different height position of the traveling surface. It may be provided with a traveling wall or a traveling path (for example, a pair or a plurality of traveling walls or a traveling path on which a runner can travel).

  The upper surface (traveling surface) of the traveling wall (or traveling path) of the rail main body may be inclined downward toward the inside to form an inclined surface. In addition, in order to project inward at the corner portion between the inner wall portion of the rail main body and the traveling wall, and to control the traveling position (traveling position in the width direction) of the runner (for example, a wheel member, rotation or rotation member) The restriction wall (or the step) may be formed. In the projection restricting wall (or restricting wall), the runner (wheel member, rotating member, etc.) may travel without contact, and the projection restricting wall (or restricting wall) restricts the runner's excessive inclination. Good. Furthermore, a stopper for stopping the traveling of the runner may be disposed in the inner space of the rail body.

  The runner (B1) of the present invention comprises at least a pair (or at least two) of first shaft members, and is rotatably attached to the first shaft member in a circumferential direction and at least capable of contacting the traveling wall of the rail. One wheel member (or bearing member), a holding unit (or mounting unit) to which the first shaft member can be attached at intervals in the traveling direction or longitudinal direction, and can be attached to this holding unit, and A connection or coupling means is provided for connecting or attaching the movable body or the transported object. The holding unit includes at least a guiding member capable of guiding the traveling direction at the bifurcated portion of the rail.

  The holding unit (or mounting unit) may include at least the guiding guide member, and the holding unit (or mounting unit) is a pair of (or two or more) first shaft members longitudinally spaced Between the shaft mounting member and the wheel member (for example, a plate-like shaft mounting member) which can be attached (for example, on both sides) and to which the connection or connection means can be attached Mounted on the first shaft member (for example, mounted on the first shaft member at a distance from the shaft mounting member in the height direction) and sliding against the inner wall of the slit-like opening at the branch portion of the rail A guide may be included to guide the traveling direction. For example, the guiding and guiding member and the shaft mounting member (for example, a narrow plate-shaped shaft mounting member) are attached to a shaft portion of the first shaft member at a predetermined interval.

  The shaft member is not limited to the first shaft member, and in addition to the first shaft member, at least one second shaft attached to a holding unit (such as a guiding guide member and / or a plate-like shaft mounting member) A member may be provided, and the second shaft member may be located, for example, between the pair of first shaft members (or the side of the pair of first shaft members). The first shaft member and the second shaft member may be mounted rotatably in a circumferential direction (or in a lateral direction), with a wheel member capable of coming into contact with the traveling wall of the rail.

  More specifically, the runner (B1) is located between the pair of first shaft members attached to both sides in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit (or mounting unit) and the first shaft member The first to third second shaft members attached to the holding unit, the first shaft member and the second shaft member are circumferentially rotatably attached, and can contact the traveling wall of the rail A pair of upper and lower wheel members may be provided. Further, in the holding unit (or mounting unit), the second shaft member is attached, and the guide and guide member in the form in which the width of both end portions in the traveling direction or the longitudinal direction is narrowed, and the first shaft member May be mounted via the guiding member (or at a distance from the guiding member), and the connecting or connecting means may be mounted with a shaft mounting member.

  Furthermore, the guiding and guiding member has a planar wedge shape or a planar spindle shape, and both side walls of the tip that can be in sliding contact with the inner wall of the slit-like opening of the bifurcation when traveling; And an inclined tip portion whose upper portion extends forward. In addition, "the form of a plane wedge shape and a plane spindle shape" means a form of a plane shape in which the width is narrowed as going in the traveling direction (forward and backward direction) of the runner, for example, the tip of the runner in the traveling direction May have a flat shape or the like of a bow of a sharp or curved ship.

  The connection or connection means may be connectable to an aid for assisting movement or walking of the mobile body or the user, or a carrier (or a carrier) for carrying the transported object. The auxiliary tool may include a rod having at least a grippable grip and / or a liftable portion, and the rod may be adjustable in length (or extendable or retractable). Furthermore, in order to suppress excessive rocking of the rod-like body, the rubber elastic body may be attachable to the rod-like body in a form (surface contact or the like) in contact with the holding unit (shaft attachment member or the like).

  The runner (B1) of the above-mentioned form has a form different from the rail (A1) of the above-mentioned form (for example, a rail structure without a looped traveling path or a branched traveling path) and the runner (B1) In combination with the runnable rail (A2) (the runner of the form (B1) can be used as a set with the runnable rail (A2)). Such a rail (A2) may have a slit-like opening and a traveling wall (or traveling path) on which the runner (B1) can travel, and the form of the rail is not particularly limited. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention sets a rail (A1) of the above-mentioned form and a runner (B1) of the above-mentioned form (for example, walking or movement assisting device); a runner (B1) of the above-mentioned form and this runner runs It also includes a set with a possible rail (A1) (for example, the walking or movement assisting device, a conveyance assisting device for assisting the conveyance of the transported object).

  The present invention further relates to a rail (A1) of the above-mentioned form and a runner which may have another form different from the runner (the above-mentioned runner (B1)) capable of traveling along the traveling path (or traveling wall) of the rail. Also included is a set with (B2)) (for example, a walking or movement assisting device).

  In the holding unit (or mounting unit) of the runner (B2), the guiding guide member is not necessarily required, and the runner (B2) is a plurality of shaft members that can be slidably disposed in the slit-like opening of the rail; Sliding members attached or attached to these shaft members and capable of traveling in contact with the traveling path (or traveling wall) of the rail (for example, a sliding contactor or a rotor capable of at least sliding or rotating in the circumferential direction of the shaft member Body), a holding unit (shaft mounting member etc.) to which the plurality of shaft members can be attached at a predetermined interval, and a connection or connection to which the movable body or the transported object can be connected or attached. Means may be provided.

  This sliding contact body is, for example, (a) one or a plurality of rotating or wheel members (or rolling members) which can be rotated (or rolled) in the circumferential direction of the shaft member in contact with the traveling path of the rail b) It may be formed of one or a plurality of sliding bodies that can slide in contact with the travel path of the rail. The rotating member or the wheel member may be formed of (1) a bearing member, for example, (2) an outer ring or a bearing member whose outer peripheral portion is coated or formed with a resin.

  Such a plurality of shaft members may be attached to a holding unit (shaft attachment member or the like) at a predetermined interval in the traveling direction of the runner. When a plurality of shaft members are attached to a holding unit (such as a shaft attachment member), the following sliding contacts (for example, rotating members) are made to follow (or follow) the preceding sliding contacts (for example, rotating members such as rotating members) Can travel smoothly along the traveling path. For example, even if the traveling path is branched, if a leading (or leading) member (for example, a rotary member) tries to move or guide in the wrong direction at the branch portion, a following sliding contact member (for example, a rotary member) Is located on the user side, the traveling direction can be corrected or corrected by the subsequent sliding contact (for example, rotation or wheel member), and the vehicle can travel smoothly and can be smoothly changed in direction. In addition, even when a predetermined load is applied, the vehicle can travel stably and smoothly, without excessive gliding.

  A pivoting member capable of pivoting (or rotating) in the circumferential direction of the shaft member is attached to the shaft member located between the plurality of rotations or wheel members and / or the slit-like opening. May be For example, a pair of ball bearings as rotating or wheel members are attached to the shaft member at predetermined intervals in the axial direction; to the shaft member located between the pair of ball bearings and / or the shaft member located in the slit-like opening The ring member may be rotatably mounted; and the pair of shaft members may be mounted on a plate-like holding unit (shaft mounting member or the like) at a predetermined interval.

  Furthermore, the holding unit (or mounting unit) includes connection or coupling means for connecting or coupling to a movable body (such as a user) or a transported body (a transported body (moving member), an opening / closing body, etc.) It may be attachable directly or indirectly. A rotating shaft is rotatably attached to the holding unit (or mounting unit), and a swinging member is swingably attached to the rotating shaft, and a user's movement or You may attach the auxiliary tool for assisting a walk. In such an aspect, (a) a rotating member or a wheel member (or a rotating body) that can freely rotate in the circumferential direction of the shaft member in contact with the traveling path of the (a) rail is often used as the sliding contact body.

  In addition, a bottom mounting wall formed extending from the holding unit (for example, both sides of the shaft mounting member, etc.) in a substantially U-shape or a substantially U-shape, and the mounting wall is formed to run the runner A slide hole extending in a direction, and a slide member disposed slidably and swingably along the slide hole, to which connection or connection means for connecting or connecting to the movable body or the transferred body can be attached or attached May be provided. In such an aspect, a sliding body that can slide in contact with the traveling path of the (b) rail is often used as the sliding contact body. A shaft portion movably or rotatably attached to the upper portion of the slide member, a rolling portion mounted on both sides of the shaft portion and capable of rolling a plate-like bottom mounting wall, and a lower portion of the slide member , And an auxiliary tool attached to the rocking member for assisting movement or walking of the user.

  In the present invention, the runner can be branched and traveled in a predetermined direction using the looped travel path and the branched travel path, and the runner can be guided in the predetermined direction. In addition, a predetermined load can be obtained by utilizing a traveling wall extending inward from the inner wall of the rail body and a traveling unit of runners (a shaft member provided with a sliding body or a wheel member and attached to the holding unit). Can run the runner smoothly and stably even if Furthermore, since the runner is at least slidable in contact with the traveling path, the runner can travel smoothly and stably following (or following) the movement of the user without excessively sliding the rail. It is. Furthermore, in order to use a plurality of traveling units, even if the traveling path is branched, the runner can travel smoothly by changing the direction. In particular, when a rail having a curved convergence path is combined with a runner having a guiding member, even when the branch has a wide width, the traveling path can be smoothly turned to travel in a predetermined direction. . Therefore, the rails and sets of the present invention are useful for assisting the movement or transportation of a mobile object or a transported object, in particular, the movement of users who have difficulty walking such as elderly people and disabled people, for example, It can be used for walking or moving assistance devices.

FIG. 1 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing an example of the rail of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded bottom view showing the rail of FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a reinforcing portion of the rail of FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the relationship between the rails of FIG. 1 and the runners. FIG. 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the runner of FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the runner of FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic view showing the relationship between the rails of FIG. 1 and the runners. FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing the traveling direction of the runner at the branch portion of the rail of FIG. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the stopper of the rail of FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing a use state of the runner of FIG. FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing another example of the rail of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing still another example of the rail of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic exploded bottom view showing the rail of FIG. FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing the first rail member of FIG. 12; FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the rail of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing still another example of the rail of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing another runner of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the relationship between another runner and the second rail member of FIG. 12; FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the runner of FIG. FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the runner of FIG. 18 and the first rail member of FIG. FIG. 21 is a schematic view showing the relationship between the runner of FIG. 18 and the second rail member of FIG. 12; FIG. 22 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the runner of FIG. FIG. 23 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing another example of the runner of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective view showing a use state of the runner of FIG. FIG. 25 is a schematic view of the runner of FIG. FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view showing the use state of another runner of the present invention. FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view showing still another runner of the present invention. FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view showing still another use state of the runner of the present invention. FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view for explaining another use state of the runner of the present invention. FIG. 30 is a partial schematic perspective view showing another example of the gripping member. FIG. 31 is a partial schematic perspective view showing still another example of the gripping member.

  The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, the same members or elements (or members or elements having similar functions) will be described with the same reference numerals.

  A rail (branch rail unit or branch rail set) 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed in a substantially triangular frame shape, and a loop-like traveling path 2 on which a runner can travel, and a corner portion of this loop-like traveling path It has branch running paths 3, 4 and 5 through which runners can travel, and the branch running paths 3, 4 and 5 are provided from adjacent two side ends of the triangular frame loop running path 2. A direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the opposing traveling paths 3 and 4 from a pair of opposing traveling paths 3 and 4 extending linearly and facing each other from the end of the top of the triangular frame loop traveling path 2 And a crossing road 5 extending in Further, the looped traveling path 2 curves inward from the intersecting traveling path 5 along a straight traveling path 2a extending linearly through the pair of opposing traveling paths 3 and 4, and the branch traveling path It includes curved converging paths 2b and 2c which converge with respect to a pair of opposing traveling paths 3 and 4 (both ends of the linear traveling path 2a). Moreover, the rail 1 is formed in symmetrical shape centering on the axis line of the crossing traveling path 5.

  The branch travel paths 3, 4 and 5 are integrally formed with the loop travel path 2 and connect with the connection travel paths 3a, 4a and 5a which form a part of the pair of opposite travel paths. It has a connecting traveling path 3b, 4b, 5b which can be positioned and connected to the traveling path.

  The rail 1 is formed of a metal such as aluminum, and the curved portions (curved convergence paths 2b and 2c and the connecting travel paths 3a, 4a and 5a) of the rail 1 are formed by bending, and the curved convergence path 2b, 2c and the connecting travel paths 3a, 4a, 5a are firmly connected by welding and smoothed by surface processing. In this example, the curved portions (curved convergence paths 2b and 2c and the connecting travel paths 3a, 4a and 5a) of the rail 1 are formed by bending of R = 400 to 600 mm (for example, 450 to 550 mm).

  More specifically, the rail (branch rail unit or branch rail set) 1 forms the first rail member 12 forming the looped traveling path 2 and the connecting traveling paths 3a to 5a, and the connecting traveling paths 3b to 5b. Connection rail members (second rail members) 13 to 15 are provided, and the first rail member 12 and the second rail members 13 to 15 are the connection travel paths 3a to 5a and the connection travel paths 3b to 5b. And can be connected or connected, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the first rail member 12 has a straight rail portion 12a corresponding to the straight travel path 2a and the connection travel path 3a, and a curve corresponding to the curved convergence paths 2b and 2c and the connection travel paths 4a and 5a. Rails 12b and 12c are provided. Further, the first rail member 12 and the second rail members 13 to 15 have a rectangular cross section (or a square frame shape) in which the central portion in the width direction of the lower wall is opened to form a slit opening. The first traveling as a lower wall forming a slit-like opening from one of the inner walls 23 of the both side walls (inner walls) 23 and 24 oppositely extending from both sides of the upper wall 22 The second traveling wall 26 extends inward from the other inner wall portion 24 at a different height position from the first traveling wall 25 (a second traveling wall 26 extends from the other inner wall portion 24) The second traveling wall 26 extends from the inner wall 24 above the one traveling wall 25), and the upper surfaces of these traveling walls 25 and 26 are directed downward (inwardly in the extending direction). It is formed as inclined slopes 25a, 26a. These inclined surfaces 25a, 26a form a running surface or a running path on which the rotation of the runner 41 or the wheel member contacts and travels. That is, from the opposite side walls (inner walls) 23, 24, a pair of running walls 25, 26 having inclined surfaces (running surfaces or running paths) 25a, 26a oppose each other from different positions in the height direction. And extend inward alternately.

  Further, a projecting wall (or regulating wall) 27 as a lower wall forming a slit-like opening extends inward from the other inner wall portion 24 and the upper surface of the projecting wall (or regulating wall) 27 is also inward ( It is formed as an inclined surface 27a inclined downward toward the extension direction).

  In addition, since the height position of the inclined surface 25a of one lower wall (running wall) 25 is formed higher than the inclined surface 27a of the other lower wall (projecting wall or restriction wall) 27, the one lower portion The wall 25 may be formed as a first traveling wall 25 capable of contacting the rotation or the wheel member of the runner 41, and the other lower wall 27 is capable of traveling the runner 41 in a non-contact state with the rotating or the wheel member. When the runner 41 inclines, it can contact with the runner 41 (for example, the shaft member of the runner 41), and can form as a projecting wall (or regulation wall) 27 which controls excessive inclination and runoff of the runner 41.

  Furthermore, in the corner portions between the traveling walls 25 and 26 and the inner wall portions 23 and 24, the rotation of the runner 41 or the excessive displacement (running deviation) of the wheel members from the traveling path (inclined surface) is restricted. Therefore, the control wall portions (control step portions) 25b and 26b are formed so as to protrude inward.

  Although the rails 1 have a predetermined length to enhance transportation efficiency, they can be connected together and extended. That is, the connecting pin 33 connects the four corner portions of the rail 1 of this example (in this example, the inner wall of both sides of the upper wall 22 and the lower wall of both lower traveling walls 25 and 27) A connecting groove 29 having an arc-shaped cross section (or a C-shaped cross section) is formed.

  Furthermore, on the side outer wall of the corner portion between the upper wall 22 and both side walls 23, 24, an attachment groove 30a having a U-shaped cross section which can be fitted or attached to a bracket for attaching the rail 1 to a predetermined portion 30b is formed.

  When the rail 1 is attached to the ceiling wall or the like with a screw through the hollow portion on the upper surface of the upper wall 22 (the contact surface which can contact with the ceiling wall or pillar depending on the construction site), In order to attach the rail 1 tightly, shallow groove-shaped recesses 31a and 31b are formed.

  Furthermore, on the inner wall of each corner of the looped traveling path 2, angle maintaining members 35a, 35b, 35c for maintaining the curvature and angular configuration of the looped traveling path 2 are attached or fixed (by welding with rails, etc. The angle maintaining member has a planar shape (in this example, an elongated triangular member corresponding to the form of the facing area facing the branch travel paths 3, 4 and 5 of the loop travel path 2). Shape) reinforcing plates 36a, 36b and 36c are attached by screwing members 37. The reinforcing plates 36a, 36b and 36c are directed to a junction where the curved portions of the rail 1 (curved convergent paths 2b and 2c and connection travel paths 3a, 4a and 5a) merge with the branch travel paths 3, 4 and 5 The tip portion has a shape of a long narrow triangle having a sharp angle, and the collision of the runner 41 is avoided.

  Furthermore, a stopper 38 for stopping the traveling of the runner 41 is attached to a predetermined portion of the rail 1. In this example, as shown in FIG. 9, the rotation of the runner 41 among the side walls 23 and 24 of the appropriate position (for example, the traveling end) of the connection rail members (second rail members) 13 to 15 of the rail member 1 Alternatively, a through hole is formed in a portion corresponding to the wheel member (ball bearing), and a screw member 39a to which a cylindrical cushioning plastic collar 40 is attached is inserted into the through hole, and a nut is inserted through the washer It is fastened by a member 39 b to form the stopper 38.

  On the other hand, the runner 41 capable of traveling on the rail 1 is, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, a plurality of shaft members 42a having a circular cross-sectional shape that can be slidably disposed in the slit-like opening of the rail 1 , 42b, 42c and the upper portions of these shaft members at intervals, and in contact with the travel paths (contact surfaces) of the rails 1 (the first rail members 12 and the second rail members 13 to 15) Pair of upper and lower ball bearings (first ball bearings 43a, 43b, 43c and second ball bearings) rotatable independently of each other in the circumferential direction (in the example shown, in the lateral or horizontal direction) of the shaft members 42a to 42c. 44a, 44b, 44c), and a holding unit (or mounting unit) 45 to which the shaft members 42a to 42c can be attached at intervals in the longitudinal direction. A traveling unit is formed by each of the shaft members 42a to 42c and the pair of upper and lower ball bearings 43a to 43c and 44a to 44c.

  More specifically, the shaft members 42a to 42c are located on both sides in the longitudinal direction, and are located at a pair of first shaft members 42a and 42b having a large length of the shaft portion and an intermediate portion in the longitudinal direction, And a second shaft member 42c having a small shaft length. In the holding unit (or mounting unit) 45, the second shaft member 42c can be attached (screwable in this example), the guiding guide member 46 and the pair of first shaft members 42a and 42b on both sides are long And a narrow plate-like shaft attachment member 47 which can be attached to both sides in the longitudinal direction by washers 49a and nut members 49b, and the shaft portions of the first shaft members 42a and 42b are provided. The guide guide member 46 and the plate-like shaft attachment member 47 are attached to each other at a predetermined interval. A shaft portion of a ring-shaped connecting member (ring member) 48 for connecting or attaching a movable body or a transported object as a connecting or connecting means to a through hole formed in a central portion in the longitudinal direction of the shaft attaching member 47 Is rotatably mounted (rotatable in the circumferential direction of the axis), and a washer 49a and a nut member 49b are screwed into this shaft to prevent the shaft from coming off. The ring-shaped connecting member (ring member) 48 may be attached to the shaft attaching member 47 without being rotated by using a mechanism such as screwing.

  The guiding and guiding member 46 has a planar wedge shape in which the width of both ends in the traveling direction or the longitudinal direction (tips in the forward and backward directions) is gradually narrowed and curved, and both sides in the longitudinal direction Both side walls (curved side walls) of the tip portion located at the end of the guide 1 form a guide wall 46a that can be in sliding contact or contact with the inner wall of the slit-like opening of the bifurcated portion of the rail 1 during traveling. Further, both end portions in the longitudinal direction of the guiding member 46 are inclined tips 46b whose upper part extends forward as going in the traveling direction (forward direction) (that is, inclined tips which incline forward as going from lower to upper) Is equipped. As described above, since the guiding and guiding member 46 is in the form (a bow shape) of a plane wedge shape (the leading portion has an acute angle) having the inclined tip portion 46b, the reinforcing plate 36a is traveled even when the runner 41 travels. , 36b, 36c can be prevented from contacting or colliding with the leading end of the guiding member 46, and the runner can travel smoothly.

  A ring-shaped pivoting member (collar) 50 is attached to the first shaft members 42a and 42b located between the guide and guide member 46 and the shaft mounting member 47 in order to protect the shaft members. The ring-shaped pivoting member (collar) 50 also functions as a spacer for keeping the guiding and guiding member 46 and the shaft attaching member 47 at a predetermined distance.

  Further, the reinforcing plates 36a, 36b, 36c and the guiding guide member 46 can be formed of various materials such as metal (iron, steel, aluminum or their alloys (stainless steel etc.), etc.), ceramics, etc. It may be formed of (or homogeneous material) or different material (hard or soft material). If one of the guiding and guiding members and the reinforcing plate (for example, the guiding and guiding member 46) is made of a material softer than the other members (for example, the reinforcing plates 36a, 36b, and 36c), the other member Durability can be improved. For example, if the reinforcing plates 36a, 36b and 36c are formed of steel and the guide and guide member 46 is formed of stainless steel, the durability of the former can be improved.

  Furthermore, a hollow cylindrical body 52 is attached to the ring-shaped connecting member 48 via the swinging member 51, and the length of the holding member (hollow holding member) 53 having the holding frame 54 is adjustable in the hollow cylindrical body. The hollow cylindrical body 52 and the holding member (hollow holding member) 53 form a rod-like body (auxiliary tool) having a holding portion. That is, a through hole is formed in the hollow cylindrical body 52, and a holding member (hollow shaft member, rod-like body) 53 is slidably attached to the hollow portion of the hollow cylindrical body 52. In the rod-like body 53, a plurality of through holes 53a are formed at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction (or axial direction). Therefore, the penetration length of the holding member (hollow shaft member, rod-like body) 53 with respect to the hollow cylindrical body 52 is adjusted, and the screw portion of the bolt (screw) 57a having the rotation operation portion is a through hole of the hollow cylindrical body 52 The length of the holding member 53 is adjusted by inserting it into a predetermined through hole 53a of the holding member (hollow shaft member, rod-like body) 53 and screwing a nut 57b with a rotation operation portion to a screw portion. A butterfly bolt (shutter) or the like may be used as the bolt (screw) 57a, and a butterfly nut or the like may be used as the nut 57b.

  The holding frame 54 of the holding member 53 is formed in a polygonal frame shape (in this example, a pentagonal frame shape having a connecting portion with the holding member 53 at the top), and along the lower frame 54 a of the holding frame 54 The member 55a is attached. In this example, a mounting groove is formed in the bottom wall of the armrest member 55a along the longitudinal direction, and the lower frame 54a is mounted in the mounting groove, the armrest member 55a relative to the lower frame 54a as illustrated. Are fixed by screws (screw members) 56. Further, a recess or a recess is formed in the lower wall of the lower frame 54a, and the screw (screw member) 56 is screwed in the recess or the recess so that the head of the screw protrudes from the lower wall of the lower frame 54a. To prevent it. Further, anti-slip members or cushioning material (or grip tape) 55 b is wound around and attached to the side frames 54 b of the grip frame 54.

  By using such a rail 1 and the runner 41, the runner 41 can travel bi-directionally along the looped traveling path 2 of the rail 1 and the branched traveling paths 3 to 5, and the looped traveling path 2 is used. As a result, the traveling direction can be easily switched, and can be moved to the branch traveling paths 3, 4, 5.

  In addition, at the plurality of positions having different heights (portions different in the axial direction of the shaft member), the running walls 25 and 26 of the first rail member 12 and the second rail members 13 to 15 rotate the wheels 41 or wheels Since the members (the first ball bearings 43a to 43c and the second ball bearings 44a to 44c) are supported while traveling, the runner 41 can travel with high stability even if a load is applied. In the traveling walls 25 and 26, the rotation of the runner 41 or the wheel members (ball bearings 43a to 43c, 44a to 44c) contact the traveling surface (inclined surface) and rotate in the opposite direction while sliding (or reversely) In addition to being able to travel smoothly while sliding in a direction, the runner 41 does not slide excessively because it rotates in a lateral direction.

  In particular, since the travel width is expanded at the bifurcated portions of the travel paths 2 to 5, the travel unit (shaft member and ball bearing) of the runner 41 is easily dislodged, but the travel unit at the top of the runner 41 (for example, shaft member 42a And the ball bearings 43a and 44a) are removed from the traveling path (opening), the load is applied to the two following traveling units (for example, shaft member 42c; 42b and ball bearings 43c and 44c; 43b and 44b) Support and cover. Therefore, even if the travel path width at the branch portion between the loop travel path 2 and the branch travel paths 3, 4 and 5 increases, the runner 41 smoothly changes its direction and travels in a predetermined direction without derailing. it can.

  Furthermore, at the bifurcations (or intersections) of the travel paths 2 to 5, the shaft member 42a of the leading traveling unit (for example, the shaft member 42a and the ball bearings 43a and 44a) includes the first rail member 12 and the second rail member 12a. Cross projecting wall (protrusion part) where the rail members 13 to 15 intersect (curved part (2b, 2c, 3a, 4a, 5a) of the rail 1 among the reinforcing plates 36a, 36b, 36c in the triangular form) Is likely to collide with the tip (a sharp tip in this example) extending toward the junction where the branch travels 3, 4 and 5 merge. However, as shown in FIG. 8, the leading portion of the guiding member 46 has an acute angle, and the side wall portion (guide wall) 46 a of the leading portion is curved, and the upper portion is in the form of an inclined tip portion 46 b Since the planar shape and the side shape have a wedge shape), even if the leading end of the inclined tip portion 46b contacts the intersecting projecting wall, the contacting portion moves to the curved portion of the guide wall 46a, Since the guide wall 46a is in sliding contact (or contact) with the cross projecting wall, the leading end of the inclined tip 46b can be turned while being released in a predetermined direction, and a collision can be avoided. Therefore, even in the case of a branched running road, the guiding member 46 prevents the collision between the shaft member 42a and the cross projecting wall (projecting portion) in conjunction with the movement or walking of the user, and the runner 41 is made smooth and It guides in a predetermined direction stably.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10, if it is used for the walking of the user (elderly person, physically disabled person, etc.), the direction can be changed smoothly by the rotation of the shaft even if the user faces in the lateral direction while walking. You can walk smoothly. Furthermore, not only the length of the gripping member (hollow shaft member) 53 can be adjusted according to the user, but also because the gripping member (rod-like body) 53 is attached to the hollow cylindrical body 52, The gripping frame 54 can be smoothly gripped by the user without the gripping frame 54 escaping. Furthermore, the user can walk while holding his / her body against the lower frame 54a while gripping the side frames 54b of the grip frame 54, and can walk with a high sense of stability. For example, the user can walk stably while holding the armrest member 55a of the lower frame 54a with an armrest or leaning (while holding the both side frames 54b as needed), and the user (the elderly person, the physically disabled person) walks ( Support).

[rail]
The rail may be runnable by a runner, and may be provided with a closed looped running path and at least three branch running paths branched from the looped running path at circumferential intervals. The form of the looped traveling path and the branched traveling path is not particularly limited. For example, the looped traveling path may have a frame shape such as a polygonal frame (triangular frame, square frame, pentagonal frame, hexagonal frame, etc.), an oval frame, a circular frame (ring), or the like. Furthermore, the triangular frame may be a regular triangular frame, an isosceles triangular frame, an irregular side triangular frame, or a triangular frame (regular triangular frame, isosceles triangular frame) having at least two sides equal in length. The square frame may be a square frame, for example, a square frame, a rectangle, or a rhombus. Moreover, the form of the loop-like traveling path may be a form combining these frame-like forms. The looped traveling path may include a straight traveling path, and may have a curved traveling path or a curved traveling path. In order to make the runner run smoothly, a straight running path, a curved running path (for example, a running path curved or expanded outward of the looped running path, a traveling path curved or expanded inward) In many cases (for example, the curved convergence traveling path) and the like, and in many cases at least a curved traveling path.

  Furthermore, the branch travel path may be a travel path linearly extending from the loop travel path, or may be a travel path extending in a bending (or bending) manner. The bifurcated travel paths may be spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the looped travel path and may extend in a radial configuration (e.g., in the radial direction), or may be spaced inwardly in the circumferential direction of the looped travel path. And / or may extend outward, and often extend outward. In addition, in a polygonal frame-like looped traveling path, a branched traveling path may extend from each corner. For example, as described above, a pair of opposing traveling paths extending in the direction opposite to each other, and this opposing traveling path And one or more crossing paths extending in a direction intersecting with the axial direction of In addition, the number of branch travel paths is not particularly limited and can be selected according to the form and application of the loop travel path, and is, for example, about 3 to 10 (preferably 3 to 6, more preferably 3 or 4). May be

  Furthermore, in the branch travel path, the connection travel path is not necessarily required, and the connection travel path (second rail member) may be connected directly to the looped travel path. In order to position and efficiently connect the looped traveling path and the connection traveling path, the looped traveling path is formed integrally with the looped traveling path between the looped traveling path and the connection traveling path. In many cases, it is necessary to intervene in the connection road.

  The looped travel path and the branch travel path may intersect linearly at the intersection, and the corner of the intersection may be curved in order to make the runner travel more smoothly.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the rail 61 includes a looped running path 62 having a substantially square frame shape, and branch running paths 63 to 66 extending outward from the corners of the looped running path. The looped running path 62 may be provided with four curved converging paths 62a to 62d that curve inward and extend to converge on each of the branch running paths 63 to 66. The rail 61 is formed in a symmetrical shape with the axis line of the opposing branch travel paths 63 to 66 as a center line.

  The curved convergence path (or curved traveling path) may be formed at an appropriate position of the looped traveling path, for example, on opposing traveling paths, but is often formed on adjacent traveling paths. Also, the curved convergence path (or curved traveling path) may be curved and converged to the branch traveling path, and the degree of curvature of the curved convergence path can be selected according to the application site of the rail, for example, 100 to 1000R (for example, , 200 to 800 R), preferably about 300 to 700 R (e.g., 400 to 600 R).

  In a looped path, a curved convergence path is not always necessary. Also, the cross sectional structure of the first rail member and / or the second rail member may be the same or different, and the height position of the traveling wall of the rail is not particularly limited.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the rail 71 is provided with a triangular frame-shaped loop-like traveling path 72 and branch traveling paths 73, 74, 75 extending from the corner portion of this loop-like traveling path. The bifurcated travel paths are a pair of opposing travel paths 73 and 74 extending opposite each other from the adjacent two side ends of the loop travel path 72 and the top end of the triangular path loop travel path 72, A crossing traveling path 75 extending in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the opposing traveling paths 73 and 74 is provided. The rails 71 are formed in a symmetrical shape with the axis line of the cross travel path 75 as a center line. The branch travel paths 73, 74, and 75 are integrally formed with the loop travel path 72, and connect travel paths 73a, 74a, and 75a that form a part of the branch travel path, and the connection travel paths. There are provided connected traveling paths 73b, 74b, and 75b which can be positioned and connected to each other. In addition, the corner portion at the intersection of the looped traveling path 72 and the branched traveling paths 73, 74, and 75 is curved.

  Further, the rail 71 includes a first rail member 82 forming the looped traveling path 72 and the connecting traveling paths 73a to 75a, and a connecting rail member (second rail member) 83 to forming the connecting traveling paths 73b to 75b. And the first rail member 82 and the second rail members 83 to 85 butt the connection travel paths 73a to 75a and the connection travel paths 73b to 75b in the same manner as described above. 33 can be connected or connected.

  The cross-sectional structures of the first rail member 82 and / or the second rail members 83 to 85 of the rails 71 may be the same or different. In this example, the second rail members 83 to 85 have the same structure as that shown in FIG. 7, and the first rail member 82 has a structure different from the structure shown in FIG. ing.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 14, the first rail member 82 of the rails 71 has the form of a square cross section (or a square frame) in the same manner as described above, and is opposed to both sides of the upper wall 22 Two pairs of running walls 86, 87, 88, 89 extend inward from the opposite side walls (inner walls) 23 and 24 at different height positions, respectively. The tips of the first pair of traveling walls 86, 87 are separated from each other to form a slit-like opening as a lower wall. The upper surfaces of the traveling walls 86 to 89 are inclined downward inward (in the extending direction) to form inclined surfaces 86a to 89a. These inclined surfaces 86a to 89a form a traveling surface or a traveling path on which the runner or the wheel member contacts to travel.

  Furthermore, at the corner portions between the traveling walls 86 to 89 and the inner wall portions 23, 24, similarly to the above, a regulating wall portion (regulating the regulation for regulating the rotation of the runner or the positional deviation (running deviation) of the wheel member) Step portions 86b to 89b are formed.

  In the same manner as described above, the rail 81 is formed with a connecting groove 29 having a circular arc shape (or a C-shaped cross section) for connection by the connection pin 33. Moreover, the attachment grooves 30a and 30b are formed in the side outer wall of the corner part of the upper wall 22 and both side walls 23 and 24, and the shallow groove-like recessed parts 31a and 31b are formed in the upper surface of the upper wall 22. ing.

  The second rail members 13 to 15 may have the same internal structure (traveling wall and projecting wall) as in FIG. 1 described above, and may have the same internal structure (traveling wall) as the first rail member 82. You may have.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, the traveling path of the rail 91 is a looped traveling path 92 having a triangular frame shape (in this example, an isosceles triangular frame shape in this example), a corner portion of the loop traveling path and an opposite side. Branch traveling paths 93 to 95 extending in the outward direction (diagonal shape) from the corner portion of the looped traveling path 92, and the branched traveling paths 93 and 94 adjacent to each other are It may have the extension runways 93a and 94a extended in parallel to the side which connects the corner parts which adjoin each other. The rail 91 is formed in a symmetrical shape with the axis of the branch travel path 95 as a center line.

  Furthermore, the rail may have a plurality of looped travel paths. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the travel path of the rail 101 is a polygonal frame (in this example, a square frame in this example) first loop travel path 102, and each side of this first loop travel path Of the second loop-like traveling path 103a-103d that are adjacent to each other and branch traveling paths 104a-104d extending outward from the corners of the second loop-like traveling path. May be The rails 101 are also formed symmetrically with the axes of the opposing branch travel paths 104a to 104d as center lines.

  The rails may be formed in an asymmetrical shape, but usually are often formed in a symmetrical shape.

  The structure of the rail is not particularly limited as long as the runner can travel as long as the looped traveling path and the branched traveling path can be formed. For example, the rail generally includes a rail body having a hollow cylindrical cross section having a slit-like opening, and a traveling wall which extends inward from the opposing inner wall of the rail body and on which the runner can travel. There is. The form of the rail is not limited to the form of a square cross section (or a square frame) having a slit-like opening, but a hollow cylindrical section having a traveling wall on which the runner can travel, for example, a polygonal shape (polygonal frame), It may be in an oval shape (elliptical frame shape), a circular shape (circular frame shape), or the like.

  The traveling walls may extend inwards (opposite directions) from each other from the same height position or different height positions, and the height positions of the traveling surfaces of the traveling walls may be the same or different. . Furthermore, at least one traveling wall (a plurality of traveling walls in total) may be extended inward from the opposing inner walls (both inner walls) of the rail main body, and at least 2 from the opposing inner walls In many cases, two traveling walls extend opposite to each other, and one traveling wall may extend inwardly from one of the inner wall portions as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

  At least the looped travel path may be formed by the first rail member. The first rail member may form a looped traveling path and a connecting traveling path as described above. Also, the connecting travel path may be formed by the second rail member. Such first and second rail members are, like the structure of the rail members, traveling walls extending from the same height position or different height positions of opposing inner wall portions of the rail body (for example, facing each other) And may have a running wall) which forms a slit-like opening.

  The first rail member and the second rail member have the same or different traveling wall structure in order to stably run the runner along the looped traveling path and the branched traveling path (in particular, the traveling path of the branch). The traveling wall or traveling path (for example, one or more pairs of traveling walls) on which the runner can travel can be opposed to each other at the same height position or different height positions from the opposing inner wall portions of the rail main body. In many cases, it extends inward, and a plurality of traveling walls or traveling paths extending from opposite inner wall portions may be formed at different height positions, for example, a pair of traveling walls have different height positions. To form a traveling wall of a plurality of pairs (for example, two pairs of traveling paths).

  In the example shown in FIG. 14 above, the running walls or the running wall and the projecting wall face each other and extend inward at the lower part (slit-shaped opening side) of the rail, but the projecting wall is not always necessary However, even if the projecting wall is formed, the upper surface of the projecting wall does not have to be formed as an inclined surface which is inclined downward in the extending direction.

  In addition, the slit-like opening does not have to be located at the lower side of the rail, and may be located in the lateral direction, the upper direction, the oblique direction or the like depending on the arrangement of the rail.

  The upper surface (or the traveling surface) of the traveling wall does not have to be formed as an inclined surface, and may form a flat surface, and a runner contact member (such as a rotating member) by contact with the upper surface of the traveling wall In order to be able to contact (or rotate) efficiently, the upper surface of the traveling wall may be inclined downward as it goes inward or outward, and usually, as it goes inward (extending direction) It is preferable to incline downward (to the slit opening side), and the inclined surface of the traveling wall may be inclined continuously or stepwise (or stepwise). In order to make the runner run smoothly even when a large load is applied, the upper surface of the traveling wall is advantageously an inclined surface.

  In addition, although the regulation wall part (regulation step part) for regulating the traveling position of the runner is not necessarily required, in order to make the runner run stably for a long time, the inner wall of the rail main body and the traveling wall Advantageously, the corner portion is formed with an inwardly projecting restriction wall. Further, the restriction wall portion does not have to be formed in a step shape from the inner wall portion, and a side wall having a thickness corresponding to the step portion may be formed from the traveling wall.

  Furthermore, connection grooves for connecting or connecting the plurality of rails or rail members and / or attachment grooves for the brackets are not necessarily required. However, when these grooves and / or mounting grooves are formed, the rails or rail members The value of use can be greatly improved.

  The rails may be formed of plastic or the like, but can usually be formed of a metal, for example, a metal such as aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is often used in terms of moldability and economics. In addition, since aluminum is relatively soft, the opposing area (especially, the tip of the opposing area) of the looped traveling path facing the branch traveling path is worn or deformed by a collision with a runner (for example, a shaft member) there is a possibility. In such a case, it is hard and strong in the facing area or branch area facing the branch road (for example, the convergence area of the curved convergence road and the counter area facing the branch road) in the looped traveling path. It is preferable to attach a reinforcing plate of high metal (eg stainless steel, steel etc).

  The reinforcing plate may have a planar shape corresponding to at least the tip of the facing area facing the branch travel path (the tip of the facing area), and the plane shape corresponding to the form of the branch area including the facing area Often have. Among the reinforcing plates, the tip end of the rail facing the junction where the curved portion (curved convergence path and connection travel path) of the rail joins the branch travel path has an end face facing the direction toward the junction Although it may be formed in a form (flat form) extending in a crossing or orthogonal direction, usually, as described above, in a sharp form or a curved form (form curved and extending toward the junction) There are many cases.

  The stopper can be formed at a suitable position for stopping the runner's traveling, and the stopper is not limited to the form crossing the rail as long as the runner's traveling can be stopped, and the projection formed on the inner wall of the rail You may form by the closure member etc. which can be mounted | worn with an open end.

[runner]
The structure of the runner is not particularly limited as long as it can travel on the rail travel path, and a shaft member that can be slidably disposed in the slit-like opening (or travelable along the slit-like opening), and this shaft member And a sliding unit (such as a rotating member or a wheel member) capable of traveling along the traveling path in contact with the traveling surface (traveling path) of the rail. It may be The sliding contact body includes at least a sliding body or a rotatable rotating body capable of sliding in contact with the traveling surface (traveling path). The sliding member may be rotatably (or not) rotatably supported by the shaft member. That is, the sliding contact body or the rotating body of the traveling unit may be rotatable in the longitudinal direction with respect to the traveling wall, may be rotatable in the lateral direction, and slides the traveling wall without rotating. It may be possible. The sliding contact body contacts (a) the traveling path of the rail and rotates (or rolls) the rotating member (or rolling member) freely rotatable (or rolling) in the circumferential direction of the shaft member, or (b) contacts the traveling path of the rail In many cases, it is formed of one slidable body. In the axial direction of the shaft member, one or a plurality of sliding members may be attached or attached corresponding to the traveling wall of the rail, for example, a plurality of sliding members (for example, a pair of upper and lower members at predetermined intervals) Or the like may be attached or attached.

  The runner may have a single traveling unit capable of traveling along the slit-like opening of the rail, and often has a plurality of traveling units in order to travel stably even when a load is applied. . Shaft members of one or more traveling units can be attached to the holding unit, and shaft members (for example, a pair of shaft members) of the plurality of traveling units are attached to the holding unit at a predetermined interval in the traveling direction of the runner May be The shaft member may be rotatably (or non-rotatably) attached to the holding unit.

  In a preferred embodiment, in order to prevent the wheel from derailing at the bifurcation of the rail, the holding unit includes shaft members of two or more traveling units, in particular, three or more (for example, 3 to 6, preferably 3 to 5, In particular, three or four shaft members are often attached at predetermined intervals. In particular, the holding unit comprises at least one pair (or at least two) of first traveling units (or first shaft members) attachable at longitudinally spaced intervals (for example, on both sides in the traveling direction) And at least one second traveling unit (or second) located between such first traveling unit (or first shaft member) and the pair of traveling units (or first shaft member) And the shaft member of the The first traveling unit can be formed of at least a pair (or at least two) of traveling units, and can be formed of, for example, about 2 to 5 (for example, 2 to 3) traveling units. It can be formed by At least one (e.g. 1 to 3, particularly 1 or 2) second shaft members are often located between the pair of first shaft members. When three or more shaft members having sliding contacts (wheel members etc.) are attached to the holding unit, the sliding contact bodies (wheel members etc.) of the leading (preceding) traveling unit at the diverging part where the traveling width spreads Even in this case, runners can be supported by sliding members (such as wheel members) of a plurality of following traveling units, and wheel removal can be effectively prevented.

  The holding unit may include at least a member capable of holding or attaching the shaft member, and the member to which the shaft member can be attached may be formed of a single member or a plurality of members. For example, it may be formed by a shaft attachment member and / or a guiding member. For example, the holding unit may be formed of a single member (shaft mounting member or guide member) in which the shaft members of one or more traveling units are attached at a predetermined distance, and one or more traveling units The shaft member may be formed of a plurality of mountable members (shaft mounting member and guide member) at predetermined intervals.

  In a preferred embodiment, as in the embodiment of the runner (B1), the holding unit often includes at least a guiding member (a guiding member capable of guiding the traveling direction at the bifurcation of the rail). The member may have a first shaft member and / or a second shaft member attached. Specifically, the holding unit may be formed by a guiding member to which shaft members of a plurality of traveling units are attached at a predetermined distance, and shaft members of a plurality of traveling units (for example, the first traveling) A shaft mounting member to which a first shaft member of the unit is attached at a predetermined distance, and a shaft member of at least one traveling unit (for example, a second shaft member of a second traveling unit) You may form with a guidance guide member. The guiding member may have the function of the shaft mounting member (or may be formed integrally with the shaft mounting member). For example, the sliding contact member may be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the guiding member. The first shaft member and / or the second shaft member to which the (rotation or wheel member (wheel body) or sliding body) is attached may be attached, and the connecting or connecting means may be attached to the guiding member. In a holding unit provided with a shaft attachment member and a guide member, the guide member is often located on the slit-like opening side, and the shaft attachment member is often located below the slit-like opening. You may attach to the 1st shaft member between sliding contact bodies (a wheel member or a wheel body etc.) and a shaft attachment member. In many cases, the second shaft member is attached to the guide and guide member, and in many cases, the pair of first shaft members is attached to the shaft attachment member. The first shaft member may be attached to the shaft attachment member via the guide member (for example, through the guide member integrated in the form of penetration, screwing, welding, etc.) There are many.

  The holding unit (shaft mounting member etc.) is not limited to a narrow plate-like form, but it is high in strength, and it is sufficient if the shaft members of a plurality of traveling units can be attached or fixed at a predetermined distance. Depending on the connecting or connecting means attached to the connector, it may be in the form of a rod, a thick plate, a box or the like, may be flat, may be uneven, or may be curved upward or downward. May be The width of the holding unit (or shaft attachment member) may be the same as or smaller than the width of the traveling path, or may be larger than the width of the traveling path.

  In many cases, the guiding member is attached at a height position where it can contact the inner wall of the slit-like opening of the rail in the axial direction of the shaft member, and at least a part of the guiding member penetrates into the slit-like opening It is often located. For example, in the mounting state to the rail, the central height (or thickness) position of the guiding member may be located at the slit-like opening, or may be located below or above the slit-like opening. Further, the width of the guiding member may be a width that can travel through the slit opening. Usually, the upper part in the thickness direction of the guiding member is often located in the slit-like opening.

  The guiding member should have a form capable of guiding the traveling direction at the bifurcation of the rail, and usually, in order to guide the traveling direction, against the inner wall of the slit-like opening at the bifurcation of the rail It may have a guide wall at both ends which can slide or contact, and the guide wall can be used to guide the traveling direction of the runner. The guide member may have a configuration in which the width of both side ends (both tip or head) in the traveling direction or the longitudinal direction is narrowed, and the side wall of the both ends (tip) is a guide wall It may be formed as The guide wall may be formed of side walls that have a width that is linear or curved and narrowed at both side ends in the longitudinal direction (e.g., side walls that decrease in width toward the tip or head). For example, it may have a flat wedge shape or a flat spindle shape (such as a flat shape of a bow of a ship). In addition, the planar shape of the tip (head) of both ends in the traveling direction or the longitudinal direction may be flat if necessary, but may generally be an acute angle or may be curved. (May be rounded).

  Furthermore, the side walls of both longitudinal end portions (both leading end portions or leading end portions) of the guide member may extend vertically and stand independently of the guide wall together with the guide wall or regardless of the formation of the guide wall. The side wall of the tip portion or the leading portion may be inclined in the forward direction at the lower portion and may be inclined in the forward direction at the upper portion from the lower side to the upper side. In a preferred embodiment, an inclined tip (or an inclined tip with an upper portion extending forward with respect to the traveling direction) for guiding to the guide wall in sliding contact with or in contact with the inner wall of the slit-like opening of the bifurcation during traveling Tip side wall), for example, the upper part often has an inclined tip (or tip side wall) inclined in the forward direction from the bottom to the top, and the side shape of the guiding member And the like).

  Depending on the form of the guiding member, a part of the traveling path may be exposed by the guiding member alone. Therefore, when combined with the shaft attachment member having a width larger than the width of the travel path, the travel path can be shielded by the shaft attachment member, and the appearance can be improved.

  The shaft member can be attached to the holding unit in various forms, and the shaft member may be attached by welding, adhesion or the like without being limited to the fastening form by the nut. Further, a through hole is formed in the holding unit (guide guide member and / or shaft mounting member), and the first nut is screwed into the screw portion of the shaft member, and the screw portion is inserted into the through hole. A second nut is screwed into the screw part that protrudes from the screw, and the shaft member is attached in a form in which the first and second nuts are fastened via the holding unit and the holding unit is pinched with a pair of nuts. It is also good.

  In an aspect (a mode of runner (B1)) in which the sliding contact body is the above-mentioned rotation or wheel member (or wheel body) (a), the rotation or wheel member (or rolling member) In addition to the bearing, it may be a disk-shaped rotating member, as long as it can rotate in the circumferential direction of the shaft member (the first shaft member and the second shaft member) in contact with the contact surface). It may be The rotating or wheel member is in point contact with the traveling path (for example, line contact by a projection formed on the contact surface of the rotating member), line contact (for example, an annular projection formed on the contact surface of the rotating member) (A line contact by an inclined or curved surface or the like formed on at least one of a part, a rotating member and / or a traveling wall), or may be rotated in surface contact, usually at least in many cases line contact. The rotating member (or rolling member) is (1) a bearing member (or bearing), for example (2) a bearing member (or bearing) whose outer ring or outer peripheral portion is covered or formed with a resin, the outer ring is in the outer circumferential direction Direction) may be formed by a bearing member (or a bearing) or the like formed in a bulging (curved and bulging) configuration. The preferable rotating member is a bearing, and the outer ring or the outer peripheral portion does not have to be coated or formed with a resin as described above, for example, radial bearings, rolling bearings (ball bearings etc.), magnetic bearings, fluid bearings And the like. A ball bearing is often used as a bearing. One or a plurality of rotating members (ball bearings etc.) may be attached to the shaft member, and at least two rotating members (a pair of upper and lower wheel members, for example, a pair of ball bearings etc.) are often attached.

  Although it is not necessary to attach a ring-shaped rotation member or ring member (collar) to the shaft member between the plurality of rotation members (or rolling members) and / or the shaft member located in the slit-like opening, Using such a pivoting member (ring member or collar) can improve the traveling performance of the traveling unit and can also prevent damage to the shaft member. The pivoting member (ring member or collar) functions as a spacer and, in order to reduce the frictional resistance, it is only necessary that the pivoting member be rotatably fitted around the shaft member and be able to pivot in the circumferential direction of the shaft member. And a hollow cylindrical member such as a hollow ring member. The pivoting member may be formed of metal, ceramic, polymer or the like, and may be formed of a bearing (for example, a ball bearing).

  In the example shown in FIG. 17, in the runner 111, the second shaft member positioned between the pair of first shaft members 42a and 42b is formed not by a single shaft member but by two shaft members 42c and 42d. It has the same form as the runner shown in FIG. A pair of upper and lower ball bearings 43c, 43d, 44c, 44d are attached to the two shaft members 42c, 42d located in the middle part, respectively. With such a runner 111, it is possible to prevent the derailing at the branch portion of the rail more reliably, and it is possible to change the direction stably and smoothly even if the travel path is wide.

  In the aspect in which the sliding contact body is the sliding body (b) (a mode of the runner (B2)), the sliding body may be able to slide in contact with the traveling wall (contact surface) of the rail; May be rotatable. Therefore, the sliding body may be formed by a bearing or the like, and may be formed by a low friction material, for example, a low friction resin such as polyacetal resin, polyolefin resin, fluorine resin, ceramics, metal, etc. .

  Similar to the embodiment of the runner (B1), the runner of the embodiment (B2) can also smoothly travel on the rail running path provided with the looped running path and the branch running path. The runner 121 which can travel along the rail of the structure shown in the said FIGS. 12-14 is shown by FIGS. 18-22. The runner 121 is provided with shaft members 122a and 122b of a pair of traveling units capable of traveling along the slit-like opening and a predetermined interval in the axial direction (in the illustrated example, in the longitudinal direction) of each shaft member. A pair of upper and lower ball bearings (sliding bodies or wheel bodies) 123a, 123b, 124a, 124b rotatably mounted in the direction and shaft members 122a, 122 of the pair of traveling units And a narrow plate-like holding unit (shaft mounting member) 127 attached thereto. The outer ring or the outer peripheral portion of each ball bearing 123a, 123b, 124a, 124b is coated or formed with a resin to reduce running noise. The bottom walls of these ball bearings rotate in the circumferential direction of the shaft members 122a and 122b while sliding in contact with the inclined surfaces of the traveling walls 25 and 26 (projecting walls 86 to 89 in the first rail member). It is possible to travel along the rail 1 (first rail member 82).

  In the shaft members 122a and 122b between the holding unit (shaft mounting member) 127 and the first ball bearings 123a and 123b, traveling walls 25 and 26 forming a slit-like opening (protruding in the first rail member In order to suppress damage due to contact with the walls 86 to 89) and to enhance muffling properties, it is formed of plastic such as vinyl chloride resin and can be rotated in the circumferential direction of the shaft members 122a and 122b. The rotating members (colors) 125a and 125b are mounted, and the shaft members 122a and 122b between the first ball bearings 123a and 123b and the second ball bearings 124a and 124b have upper traveling walls 26 (first Of the rail members in the circumferential direction of the shaft members 122a and 122b in order to suppress damage due to contact with the second traveling walls 88 and 89). Ability of the second ring-shaped rotating member (collar) 126a, 126b are mounted. In this example, the second rotation member is formed of metal such as stainless steel.

  In this example, the screw formed at the lower end of the shaft members 122a and 122b is screwed into a screw hole (not shown) formed at a predetermined distance in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit (shaft mounting member) 127. In addition, by screwing the nut 128 to the screw portion projecting from the holding unit 127, the pair of traveling units can be fixed to the holding unit 127.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 18 to FIG. 22, in the through hole formed in the central part in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127, the rotary shaft member 130 can be rotated as a connection or connection member (in the circumferential direction of the axis The rotary shaft member is mounted on the rotary shaft, and the head of the rotary shaft member (in this example, the nut 131 fixed at the top of the rotary shaft member) prevents the rotary shaft portion from coming off from the through hole. A cylindrical ring portion 130 a is fixed to the lower portion of the rotary shaft member 130, and this cylindrical ring portion is integrated with the hollow cylindrical cylinder 132 in a form of being attached to the hollow portion of the hollow cylindrical cylinder 132 ( Integrated by welding etc.

  In the above structure, the cylindrical body 132 is attached to the holding unit (or shaft attachment member) 127 via the rotary shaft member 130, so the cylindrical body 132 swings with respect to the holding unit (or shaft attachment member) 127 May. In order to suppress such excessive swinging, the rotation shaft member 130 and the hollow cylindrical tubular body 132 may be covered, and a vibration preventing member 133 mounted on the tubular body 132 may be provided. The anti-swing member 133 is formed of a hollow cylindrical rubber elastic body provided with a housing portion in which the rotary shaft member 130 can be housed and a mounting recess in which the cylindrical body 132 can be mounted, and the top is a holding unit (or shaft The mounting member is mounted on the cylindrical body 132 in surface contact with the mounting member 127. Therefore, by utilizing the rubber elasticity of the anti-swing member 133, it is possible to suppress large swing of the cylindrical body 132 with respect to the holding unit (or shaft attachment member) 127.

  A hollow cylindrical body 52 shown in FIG. 10 may be formed on the hollow cylindrical body 132, and a holding member (hollow holding member) having a holding frame 54 as in the rod-like body having a holding portion shown in FIG. The 53 may be mounted to be adjustable in length.

  Even in such a runner 121, the traveling direction can be easily changed using the looped traveling path, and the traveling can be made to travel along the looped traveling path and the branch traveling path. Further, even in the case of a branched travel path, the runner 121 can change direction while traveling smoothly and stably in conjunction with the movement or walking of the user.

  Also, at a plurality of positions with different heights (portions with different axial directions of the shaft members), two pairs of traveling walls 86 to 89 of the first rail member 82 and traveling walls 25 of the second rail members 83 to 85, Since the first ball bearings 123a and 123b and the second ball bearings 124a and 124b) of the runner 121 are supported by the vehicle 26, the runner 121 can travel with high stability even if a load is applied. In the traveling wall, the rotating members (ball bearings 123a to 124b) of the runner 121 contact and slide with the traveling surface (inclined surface) and rotate in the reverse direction (or rotate in the reverse direction and slide). Running smoothly and the runner 121 does not slide excessively. Furthermore, on the looped traveling path, since the rotating members (ball bearings 123a to 124b) of the runner 121 can contact the two traveling walls 86 to 89, respectively, the pedestrian can reduce the speed and change the direction In the branch traveling path, since the rotating member of the runner 121 can contact the traveling walls 25 and 26 of the second rail members 83 to 85, the pedestrian can travel at an increased speed.

  Furthermore, when used for the walking of the user (elderly person, physically disabled person, etc.), even if the user turns to the left and right during walking, the direction can be changed smoothly by the rotating shaft portion of the rotating shaft member 130, and the walking smoothly. it can. Furthermore, the user can walk with a high sense of stability using the holding member (hollow shaft member). In addition, even if the user releases the grip frame 54, the swing preventing member 133 can suppress excessive swinging of the hollow cylindrical body 132.

[Connection to or connection to holding unit]
Connection or connection means for connecting or attaching the movable body or the transported body can be directly or indirectly attached to the holding unit (shaft attachment member or the like). For example, the holding unit may have a mounting portion to which the connection or coupling means can be attached, and the mounting portion is formed to extend from the holding unit in a substantially U-shape or a substantially U-shape. It is also good. More specifically, the mounting portion has a plate-like bottom wall (a bottom mounting wall formed to extend in the above-described form), a slide hole formed in the plate-like bottom wall, and extending in the traveling direction of the runner The slide hole may be provided with a slide member slidably and / or swingably along the slide hole as an intermediate member. Furthermore, the shaft may be rotatably attached or attached to the slide member (for example, the upper portion of the slide member), and on both sides of the shaft, the plate-like bottom wall can be rolled. The moving part (or rotating part) may be attachable, and the rolling unit may be formed by the shaft part and the rolling part. Furthermore, in the same manner as described above, the pivot member may be mounted on the shaft member of the traveling unit so as to be rotatable (or rotatable) in the circumferential direction of the shaft member.

  More specifically, in the example shown in FIGS. 23 to 25, the rail 151 has no upper pair of traveling walls 88 and 89 in the first rail member 82 shown in FIG. It is formed similarly to the first rail member 82 except that it has a pair of traveling walls 86, 87. That is, the rail 151 has a hollow square shape in cross section, and a pair of traveling walls (traveling paths) 152 and 153 extend from the lower part of the opposing inner walls to form a slit-like opening. Further, in the same manner as described above, the rail 151 is formed with a connection groove 29 for connection by a connection pin, and attachment grooves 30a and 30b. In addition, also in the structure of such a rail 151, the rail which has a loop-like running path and a branch running path can be formed similarly to the above.

  The runner 161 provided with a traveling unit capable of traveling on the rail 151 is axially supported by the shaft member 162 (162a, 162b) which can be disposed in the slit-like opening, and the lower traveling walls 152, 153 are supported. Sliding (traveling) substantially disk-like sliding main body (sliding member) 163 (163a, 163b), and cylindrical ring member (rotating member) rotatably mounted in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 162 , Color) 164 (164a, 164b). In this example, the shaft member 162 of the traveling unit is mounted at a predetermined distance from the sliding main body portion 163, and can be in contact with the lower traveling walls 152 and 153 of the rail 151 in accordance with the tilting movement of the traveling unit. The cushion member 166 (166a, 166b) mounted on the shaft member 162 between the restriction member 165 (165a, 165b) and the inclination restriction member and the plate-like holding unit (or shaft attachment member) 168 is provided.

  In this example, the upper end side of the shaft member 162 is fixed to the substantially disk-like sliding main body portion 163 (the sliding main body portion 163 is penetrated and the nut 167 (167a, 167b) is screwed to the upper end of the shaft member 162 The lower end side of the shaft member 162 is fixed to the plate-like holding unit 168 (through the shaft mounting hole (not shown) formed in the holding unit 168), and the lower end of the shaft member 162 is a nut or the like. Fixed).

  The sliding main body portion 163 and the inclination restricting member 165 are formed of an oil-impregnated polyacetal resin (Duracon (registered trademark) manufactured by Polyplastics Co., Ltd.) having high slidability and abrasion resistance, etc., and a cylindrical ring member The (color) 164 is formed of metal (for example, stainless steel) or the like, and the cushion member 166 is formed of a resin (for example, polyurethane) having elasticity.

  The shaft members 162 (162a, 162b) of the two traveling units can be attached to the plate-like holding unit 168; this holding unit 168 is a mounting portion formed extending in a U-shape from both ends. (Or a mounting member) 170; a slide hole 172 formed in the bottom wall 171 of the mounting portion extending in the traveling direction (longitudinal direction) of the traveling unit; and slidably and pivotably disposed along the slide hole A plate-like slide member (intermediate member) 173 which can be provided; and a rolling unit 175 rotatably mounted on the slide member in the traveling direction (longitudinal direction) of the traveling unit.

  The rolling unit 175 is rotatably mounted on both sides of a shaft portion 176 rotatably mounted in a mounting hole 173 a formed in the upper portion of the slide member 173 and on both sides of the shaft portion. A pair of needle roller bearings (rolling member or rotating member) 177 capable of rolling on the upper surface is provided. In this example, a ring member (washer) 178 and a nut 179 are screwed into both ends of the shaft portion 176, and the shaft portion 176 and a pair of needle roller bearings 177 are fixed.

  A one-touch hook 180 having an open / close pin 180a is detachably mounted in a suspended state in a mounting hole 173b formed in the lower portion of the slide member 173. The hooks 180 can function as connecting or linking means.

  In such a runner 161, as the slide member 173 swings in the traveling direction, the rolling member 177 of the rolling unit 175 rolls on the upper surface of the bottom wall of the mounting portion (or mounting member) 170 and travels. Promote the unit in the runner's direction of travel. Further, since the slide member 173 attached with the one-touch type hook 180 slides along the slide hole 172, the traveling unit can be interlocked (followed) with the slide movement. Then, the sliding main body portion 163 slides on the traveling surface, and the cylindrical ring member (rotational member) 164 contacts and rotates with both side surfaces (both side walls) of the slit-like opening. Therefore, when the runner 161 provided with such a traveling unit is used for the walking assistance of the user in the care field or the like, the movement of the center of gravity of the user is followed (linked), and excessive travel of the runner 161 is suppressed. The runner 161 can be smoothly moved (traveled), and the user can smoothly walk (move) regardless of whether it is a straight direction or a branch direction. In addition, even if load is applied, the runner 161 can move (travel) gently without excessively sliding the traveling walls 152 and 153 of the rail 151, and the user can minimize the necessary force. You can walk smoothly and stably.

  Further, since the shaft members 162 of the two traveling units are attached to the holding unit 168 at a predetermined interval, the preceding traveling unit leads as the user moves, and the backward traveling unit goes in the wrong direction In order to correct (regulate) the movement of the runner, the runner can be smoothly interlocked (followed) in accordance with the movement (walking) of the user. Furthermore, even if the runner shaft member 162 is excessively inclined, the inclination restricting member 165 can contact the lower walls 152 and 153 of the rail 151, so the runner's predetermined posture is maintained and the traveling wall 152 of the rail 151, The vehicle can travel (move) stably, and even if the user breaks his posture, the user can be prevented from falling. Further, the cushion member 166 disposed at the lower part of the inclination restricting member 165 absorbs (buffers) the impact accompanying the contact, and the durability of the runner can be improved.

  In addition, in order to connect or connect with a mobile body or a to-be-conveyed body, various connection or connection means can be attached to the holding | maintenance unit of the said runner. The connection or connection means (or connection means or connection unit) can be selected according to the movement form or the like of the movable body or the transported body, and for example, a rotating shaft or a rotational member rotatably attached to the holding unit Hook-like, substantially C-shaped hook members (one-touch hook members which may have opening / closing pins etc.); hanging or engaging means (or members) such as ring members (eg O-ring etc) A connection means (or a member) such as a connection fitting may be used. These connection means or connection means may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The connection or coupling means may connect the movable body or the transported body in a suspended state or suspended state. The connection means or connection means is usually a hanging or engaging member such as a rotating shaft or a rotating member, a hook member, a ring member or the like in many cases, and one or more members are combined, for example, to the holding unit The plurality of connection or coupling members may be pivotally coupled to one another.

  The connection means or the connection means and the moving body or the transferred body may be directly connected or connected, and between the two, an aid for assisting movement or walking of the moving body, or a transferred body There may be intermediate connection means (such as an intermediate member) connectable with the transfer tool for transferring the body. As the intermediate connection means, in addition to the slide member and the like, a cord-like body (a suspending cord, a cord-like body such as a rope, a strap-like cord-like body which may have a grip portion, etc.) It may be a body, a rod-like body (for example, a rod-like body which may have a grip portion), and the like. The cord-like body as the intermediate connection means may be a connecting cord (for example, a connecting cord with an opening and closing sheet, a connecting cord with a transfer target, etc.), and if necessary, tools (transfer target) It may be a power cord or the like connected to the transported object and locked to the connection means or connection means (hook member etc.). In addition, the intermediate connection means (intermediate member and the like) such as a string, a chain, and a rod may be adjustable in length.

  Further, the connection means or the connection means may be connected to a restraint (for example, a body restraint) of a mobile body (for example, an elderly person, an animal or the like) via an intermediate connection means (for example, an intermediate member). The restraint (for example, a physical restraint) may be worn on a part of the user's body, and may be the user's clothing (pajamas, jumpers, etc.).

  More specifically, a ring-shaped member, a hook member (which may be provided with an open / close pin), etc., as the connection or connection means, at the appropriate place of the holding unit (guide guide member and / or shaft attachment member etc.) A connection means (or connection member) may be attached. For example, as shown in FIG. 26, the holding unit (or shaft attachment member) 127 similar to that of FIGS. 18 to 22 includes a string-like body 182 (intermediate connection means) connected to a user's body restraint. A connection unit 181 provided with a tension control mechanism capable of adjusting tension can be attached. In this example, both side portions in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127 are connected or coupled with the connection unit 181 as an auxiliary tool by the screw members 182a to 182d, and the box-shaped connection unit 181 is accompanied by falling or the like. When the movement acceleration of the user increases, the string-like body 182 is pulled to prevent the user from falling.

  The connection unit may be a unit capable of holding a string or a sheet in a suspended state, and the string of the connection unit is a restraint (for example, a body restraint) of a moving body (eg, elderly person, animal, etc.) Can be suspended in a suspended state. In particular, as a connection unit, aids (movement assistance devices) for moving bodies (users such as elderly people) can be effectively used. With such movement assistance devices (connection units), movement bodies (for elderly people etc.) The rapid movement or excessive movement caused by the fall of the user) can be suppressed by pulling with the cord-like body.

  The connection form between the holding unit and the connection unit is not limited to the above example, and may be connected or coupled to the connection unit at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 27 and FIG. 28, an O-ring shaped ring member 191 and a triangular shaped ring member 192 may be attached as a connecting or connecting member at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127. These connection or coupling members may be rotatable with respect to the holding unit 127. Intermediate connection means such as cords, engagement members, fastening members, etc. can be attached to these connection or connection members, and, for example, as shown in FIG. 28, a ring member (in this example, a triangular shape) A strap-like gripping member 193 or the like having a gripping portion 193a that can be gripped by a user such as an elderly person may be swingably connected or attached to the ring member 192) as an auxiliary tool.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 29, in the through hole formed in the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127, the rotary shaft portion of the rotary ring member 191 is rotatable as a connection or connection member (circumferential direction of the axis The rotation shaft is prevented from coming off from the through hole by the head of the rotation shaft (in this example, a nut 192 fixed at the top of the rotation shaft). Similar to the connection structure shown in FIG. 10, an inverted U-shaped swinging member 194 is locked to the ring portion of the rotating ring member 191, and this swinging member has a ring portion (small ring at its free end). U-shaped swinging main body portion having a shaft portion, and a head portion 194c (for preventing coming off from the ring portion) which can be rotatably (or rotatably) mounted on the ring portion (small ring portion) And a threaded portion on which the nut 194 d can be screwed. A hollow cylindrical cylinder (a rod-like, hollow cylindrical holding member 195 having a holding portion 195a) or the like may be rockably connected or attached to such a rocking mechanism as an auxiliary tool. For example, an inverted U-shaped swinging member 194 is inserted into a mounting hole formed in the hollow cylindrical cylindrical body 195, and the shaft portion 194c is used as a ring of the rocking main body by utilizing the mounting hole of the cylindrical body 195. The swinging member 194 can be attached to the cylindrical body 195 as an auxiliary tool by attaching to the portion and screwing a nut 194d to the screw portion of the shaft portion 194c.

  In addition, it is not necessary to attach swingably the gripping member 193 and the rod-like gripping member 195 as a support tool so that the gripping members (rod-like body) 193 and 195 have a string-like body and a chain-like shape. It may be connected or coupled to the coupling member of the holding unit 127 via the body or the like. Furthermore, the gripping members (rod-like members) 193 and 195 may be rotatable or pivotable (further, if necessary, pivotable) with respect to the holding unit 127, and extendable or retractable (long) Adjustable). In addition, the connection member (for example, the ring member) may be attached to a plurality of places (for example, both sides or the like) in the longitudinal direction of the holding unit 127.

  In the runner shown in FIGS. 18 to 29, two shaft members are shown, but three or more shaft members (a pair of first shaft members positioned on both sides in the longitudinal direction and an intermediate portion) At least one second shaft member located may be attached to the holding unit. Moreover, although a shaft attachment member is shown as a holding | maintenance unit, you may be provided with the at least guidance guide member similarly to the aspect of runner (B1).

  As shown in FIG. 30, of the holding frame 54 having a polygonal frame shape similar to that shown in FIG. 10, the lower frame 54a extending in the lateral direction etc. is replaced with the armrest member 55a, and is replaced with the lower frame 54a. A shock absorbing material or cushioning material 55c may be attached along the length.

  Thus, the rotary shaft portion rotatably mounted to the holding unit, the swinging member swingably mounted to the rotary shaft portion, and the swinging member mounted on the swinging member The use of the aid for assisting the movement can effectively assist the pedestrian's walking in the care field.

  The rod-like body may be swingably attached to the swinging member (the rotating shaft portion when there is no swinging member), or may be integrally attached without swinging the rod-like body. The rod-like body does not have to be formed of a hollow cylindrical body and a gripping member, and may be provided with a gripable rod-like body (a rod-like body having a gripping portion). Further, the gripping member (rod-like body) does not have to extend linearly, but may be curved in the longitudinal direction and may extend in the form of a wave, and may extend in the form of a spiral while curving in the longitudinal direction It is also good.

  The rod-like body has a certain length, and the length may not be adjustable, but it is preferable that the length can be adjusted (stretchable or extensible), and in the rod-like body whose length can be adjusted, the hollow cylinder The body is not limited to a cross-sectionally cylindrical shape, and may have a cross-sectional hollow polygonal shape. The length adjustment mechanism of the rod-like body is not limited to the mechanism in which the cylinder and the rod-like body are penetrated and positioned by the penetrating member as described above, and a plurality of hollow cylinders of different diameters (long The hollow cylinder) may be slidably concentrically accommodated in one another, and may be an expansion mechanism or the like that can be fixed by a fastening mechanism or the like in a state in which one or more hollow cylinders are expanded. The rod-like body to be made may be a solid or hollow rod-like body.

  In addition, in order to perform the gripping operation smoothly, the rod-like body (or the gripping portion) is shaken between the holding unit and the rod-like body (or the gripping portion) along with the contact with the rod-like body (or the gripping portion). A flexible member to be moved (for example, a member capable of swinging in various directions (or excessively), such as a free deformable or bent deformable string or chain) may be interposed, but not Is preferred. Between the holding unit and the rod-like body (or the grip portion), a rigid or rigid member (for example, a molded body of metal, ceramic, resin, etc., such as the above-mentioned inverted U-shaped swinging member) The formed hard member or the member having high mechanical strength) may be interposed.

  When the rubber elastic body is mounted on the rod-like body in contact with the holding unit, the rod-like body (or the grip portion) can be prevented from excessively swinging. The rubber elastic body is usually attached to the end of the rod in contact with the holding unit in a form covering the connection means or unit, and the thickness of the rubber elastic body is increased or held. By increasing the contact area with respect to the unit, it is possible to prevent excessive swinging of the rod-like body (or the grip portion) with respect to the holding unit.

  The grip portion may be formed into a rod-like body as described above, or may be in the form of an inverted T-shape, a U-shape, or the like, and the grip portion is formed into a rod-like body as described above It may be a holding frame. This holding frame may be a polygonal frame (for example, a polygonal frame such as a triangular frame, a quadrilateral frame, a pentagonal frame, a hexagonal frame or the like).

  Furthermore, the gripping member (rod-like body) may be connected to the gripping portion via various forms of intermediate portions such as bending or bending. For example, as shown in FIG. 31, a grip member (rod-like body) 53 is attached to a hollow cylindrical body 52 swingably attached to a runner connection member so that the length can be adjusted, and this grip member is bent Alternatively, it may be provided with a bent holding frame portion 196 and a rod-like holding portion 197 attached to an end of the holding frame portion. In this example, as shown in FIG. 31, the holding frame portion 196 has a bending or bending portion 196a in a form of bending or bending in the forward direction between the holding member (rod-like body) 53 and the holding portion 197. ing.

  In addition, a shock absorbing material, a cushioning material, a non-slip member (grip tape etc.) etc. are not necessarily required. Further, a recess corresponding to the lower frame of the polygonal frame-like holding frame may be formed in the armrest member, and the lower frame may be attached or fitted to this recess. Also, the lower frame and the armrest member may be fixed using a conventional fixing device such as an adhesive, a fastener or the like. The armrest member may be made of metal, wood, plastic or the like.

  Also, the rod-like body, the appropriate place of the gripping member (including the gripping portion), the shock absorbing material or the cushioning material may be coated with a tape or sheet (or film), and a fabric may be used as a sheet. The heat shrinkable sheet (or film) may be used as a film to heat and tightly cover. Further, a surface fastener may be used for covering with the tape or sheet. For example, a tape or sheet (or film) with hook-and-loop fasteners may be used. In addition, the tape may be spirally wound on a cushioning material or a cushioning material to form a helical uneven portion to enhance grip. Furthermore, a hollow cylindrical cushioning material or cushioning material may be attached to the rod-like body and the gripping member (including the gripping portion), if necessary, with an adhesive. Furthermore, if necessary, the holding member (for example, the appropriate position of the holding frame such as the side frames 54b, the appropriate position of the holding frame portion 196) etc. You may attach it.

  The invention also encompasses a set of the runner and the rail. As described above, the rail is provided with the looped traveling path and the branched traveling path, and is provided with the traveling wall or the traveling path on which the runner can travel. The runner according to the aspect (B2), that is, the runner, and a holding unit; and a plurality of shaft members (for example, slidably mounted in the slit-like opening of the rail) attached at predetermined intervals to the holding unit. And at least one pair of first shaft members, and optionally at least one second shaft member), attached or attached to these shaft members, and in contact with the running path of the rail to at least slide or surround the shaft members It may be provided with a slideable body (wheel member, wheel body, etc.) rotatable in a direction, and a connecting or connecting means attached to the holding unit and connectable or attachable to a movable body or a transported object. Furthermore, the runner may be a runner according to the embodiment (B1), that is, a runner in which the holding unit includes at least a guiding member.

  In such a set, the sliding contact body of the runner contacts at least the sliding wall of the rail to be slidable or slidingly contactable (rotatable or rotatable in the circumferential direction of the shaft member) as the runner travels. Can slide without Therefore, the runner can travel stably and smoothly even if the traveling path is branched along the slit-like opening of the rail without excessive gliding. Such a set can be used to transfer or transport various moving members, move a moving body (such as an elderly person or a disabled person), etc., and is a movement aid useful for assisting the movement of users who have difficulty walking. The device may be formed. The set may further include the connection or connection means, and the connection or connection means can be attached to the support attachment portion or the holding unit shaft attachment member of the runner, and the moving member It may be connectable to a (transferred body, an opening and closing body, etc.) or a moving body.

  The rails and runners of the present invention, and the sets of rails and runners, can be used in a wide range of fields such as movement or transportation of members or articles, walking assistance, opening and closing of spaces, for example, movement or movement of various objects or objects It can be used to move the body (humans such as elderly people, animals etc.). As the transferred object (transferred object), for example, a transferred object (or transferred member) in a factory, a farm, a hydroponic cultivation site, a sorting place of articles, etc. (for example, processing equipment such as a transported tool; parts Assembly parts, members to be subjected to predetermined treatment, for example, processed articles such as coated parts; sorting articles; supply units for water or nutrient source, members to be transported such as hoses, or transport members) In the field of partitions such as homes, factories, warehouses, stores, garages, vehicles, etc., an opening / closing member or an opening / closing member of an opening / closing device, for example, a partition sheet of a curtain, a sheet, etc. can be exemplified. The transferred object may be transferred using a transfer tool, for example, using a transfer tool such as a storage member (storage container) capable of storing the transferred object, and an engagement member capable of engaging with the transferred object. And may be transported.

  The present invention is an aid or assistance device (moving or walking) for a user (pedestrian or moving body) such as an elderly person or a disabled person to move or walk in a home or facility in the field of medical care and nursing care Auxiliary equipment) can be used effectively. The assisting tool is not particularly limited as long as it can assist the movement or walking of the user, and may be, for example, the rod-like body, a holding frame, the connection unit 181 or the like. By using the aid, for example, it is possible to assist (support) an elderly person who is difficult to walk or a person with a disability to walk smoothly and stably to a desired place.

  The present invention relates to a main rail (for example, a rail member having a looped traveling path) configured of one or more rails corresponding to each passage in facilities such as homes, nursing homes and hospital rehabilitation rooms. A subrail extending from the main rail to a predetermined place (for example, a bedroom, a bed, a bathroom, a washroom, a toilet, a kitchen, a plurality of rooms such as an entrance, etc.) (eg, a rail member having a branched or connected traveling path) Can be formed to form a plurality of branch travel paths, and can be suitably used for assisting (supporting) movement or walking of elderly people, disabled people, and the like.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 61, 71, 91, 101, 151 ... Rails 2, 62, 72, 92, 102, 103a-103d ... Loop-like traveling path 2b, 2c, 62 ... Curved convergence path 3-5, 53-66, 73- 75, 93 to 95, 104a to 104d ... branched traveling paths 3a to 5a, 73a to 75a ... connected traveling paths 3b to 5b, 73b to 75b ... connected traveling paths 12, 82 ... first rail members 13 to 15 and 83-3 85: Second rail member 25, 26, 86 to 89, 152, 153: Traveling wall 25a, 26a, 86a to 89a: Inclined surface 36a to 36c: Reinforcing plate 38: Stopper 41, 111, 121, 161: Runner 42a -42d, 122a, 122b, 162 ... shaft members 43a-43d, 44a-44d, 123a-124b ... rotating members (ball bearings)
45, 127, 168-Holding unit 46-Guidance guide member 46a-Guide wall 46b-Inclined tip 47-Shaft attachment member 48-Ring member 52, 132-Hollow cylindrical cylinder 53, 193, 195-Holding member 54-... Gripping frame 133 ... Vibration preventing member 163 ... Sliding main body (sliding member)

Claims (7)

A closed track having a closed configuration in which the runner can travel, and at least three branch roads which extend outward at intervals along the circumferential direction through the closed track and which the runner can travel. A rail that can be attached to the mounting portion of the upper space,
This rail is a transfer or transfer rail for assisting the movement of the transferred object or the transferred object or the movement of the pedestrian through the runner;
Said closed travel path includes a closed travel path in the form of a polygonal frame (but excluding a triangular frame), an oval frame or a circular frame;
In the polygonal frame-shaped closed traveling path, a single branch traveling path extends outward from the corner portion of the polygonal frame-shaped traveling path without forming an adjacent closed traveling path, and an elliptical frame or In a circular frame-shaped closed track, a single branch track extends outward, circumferentially spaced, without forming an adjacent closed track;
At the intersection of the closed travel path and the branch travel path, both travel paths adjacent to each other among the closed travel paths are curved and converged with respect to the branch travel path Or rail for movement.   In a polygonal frame-like closed traveling path, a branched traveling path extends outward from each corner portion, and in an elliptical frame-like or circular frame-like closed traveling path, a radial form is provided at circumferential intervals. The rail of claim 1 wherein the bifurcated track extends outwardly.   The branch traveling path includes a connecting traveling path integrally formed with the closed traveling path leading to the closed traveling path, and a connection traveling path connectable to the connecting traveling path. 2 rail described.   4. A rail as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closed tracks include curved convergent paths which are adjacent to one another and which curve and converge with respect to the branch track.   The rail according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a reinforcing plate is attachable to an opposite area of the closed traveling path facing the branch traveling path.   The rail comprises a rail body having a hollow cylindrical cross section having a slit-like opening, and at least one traveling wall on which each of the runners can travel and extend inward from the opposed inner wall portions of the rail body. The rail according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   A set of the rail according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and a runner capable of traveling along the traveling path of the rail.

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