WO2005058225A1 - A combination exercise apparatus and walking aid - Google Patents

A combination exercise apparatus and walking aid Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2005058225A1
WO2005058225A1 PCT/AU2004/001779 AU2004001779W WO2005058225A1 WO 2005058225 A1 WO2005058225 A1 WO 2005058225A1 AU 2004001779 W AU2004001779 W AU 2004001779W WO 2005058225 A1 WO2005058225 A1 WO 2005058225A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
exercise
frame structure
exerciser
handle
seated position
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2004/001779
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Neville Charles Whiteley
Original Assignee
Neville Charles Whiteley
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2003907015A external-priority patent/AU2003907015A0/en
Application filed by Neville Charles Whiteley filed Critical Neville Charles Whiteley
Priority to AU2004298291A priority Critical patent/AU2004298291A1/en
Publication of WO2005058225A1 publication Critical patent/WO2005058225A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H3/04—Wheeled walking aids for patients or disabled persons
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/0002—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms
    • A63B22/0005—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms with particular movement of the arms provided by handles moving otherwise than pivoting about a horizontal axis parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/0002—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms
    • A63B22/001—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms by simultaneously exercising arms and legs, e.g. diagonally in anti-phase
    • A63B22/0012—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms by simultaneously exercising arms and legs, e.g. diagonally in anti-phase the exercises for arms and legs being functionally independent
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/06—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement
    • A63B22/0605—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing a circular movement, e.g. ergometers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H2003/002—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with attached or incorporated article carrying means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H3/04—Wheeled walking aids for patients or disabled persons
    • A61H2003/046—Wheeled walking aids for patients or disabled persons with braking means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2209/00—Devices for avoiding blood stagnation, e.g. Deep Vein Thrombosis [DVT] devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/0048—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis
    • A63B22/0056—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
    • A63B22/20—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, e.g. gliding means, to be moved over the floor or other surface, e.g. guide tracks, during exercising
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2210/00—Space saving
    • A63B2210/50—Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an exercise apparatus for the ambulant disabled.
  • the present invention relates to an exercise apparatus which can also be used as a walking aid.
  • peripheral vascular diseases such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and claudification which results in severe discomfort in the leg muscles and is caused by inadequate blood flow.
  • DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis
  • claudification results in severe discomfort in the leg muscles and is caused by inadequate blood flow.
  • a person may have extremely limited mobility and may have to exercise in a seated position and furthermore employ a walking frame to help them move about in an upright position.
  • aged persons and patients alike are encouraged to maintain as much mobility as possible as this promotes blood flow in their legs thus reducing the further onset of peripheral vascular disease.
  • the present invention accordingly provides a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including: an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including a pair of oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus; at least one exercise device mounted to said upright frame structure; at least one wheel and a handle located on said upright frame structure to allow an exerciser to grasp said handle and walk supported by said upright frame structure, wherein said at least one exercise device is operable from a seated position.
  • an ambulant disabled person can walk supported by the upright frame structure thereby facilitating greater mobility and hence improving treatment or rehabilitation outcomes.
  • the apparatus can be moved between locations as required.
  • said handle is located so that an exerciser exercising in a seated position can grasp said handle to rise from said seated position to a walking position.
  • said at least one exercise device is removably mounted to said upright frame structure.
  • This provides enhanced flexibility as exercise devices can be customized according to the specific needs of a person using the apparatus.
  • said at least one exercise device includes a leg press arrangement mounted to one of said frame elements centrally thereof to exercise the legs of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
  • said apparatus further includes an exercise device which includes a crank arm arrangement mounted to the other of said frame elements centrally thereof, to exercise the arms and shoulder regions of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
  • an exercise device which includes a crank arm arrangement mounted to the other of said frame elements centrally thereof, to exercise the arms and shoulder regions of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
  • said at least one exercise device is adapted to provide isotonic exercise to said exerciser.
  • said at least one exercise device includes manually adjustable variable resistance means.
  • said apparatus further includes a collapsible seat arrangement, said collapsible seat arrangement having a first deployed position wherein said exerciser may exercise seated on said seat arrangement and a second collapsed position wherein said exerciser may use said apparatus as a walking aid.
  • a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including first and second oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus, wherein said second frame element terminates at an upper end in a handle and includes at least one wheel mounted to a lower end, said second frame element further including a leg press arrangement mounted centrally thereof to exercise the legs of an exerciser whilst in a seated position.
  • FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGURE 2 is a side view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1;
  • FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1 demonstrating the removable exercise devices;
  • FIGURE 4 is a perspective view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1 indicating further attachments to the apparatus;
  • FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
  • a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus 100 including an upright frame structure 110, wheels 120 attached to a base member 115 of the upright frame structure 110, a crank arm exercise device 130 and a leg press exercise device 140.
  • Upright frame structure 110 consists of first and second frame elements 111, 112 pivotably attached to each other by securing bolts or pins 113 and further braced by intermediate bracing members 114.
  • First frame element 111 includes two opposed generally upright struts Ilia, 111b whose lower ends form a pair of ground contacting legs.
  • Second frame element 112 is of a generally rectangular shape in plan view having two opposed side members 112a, 112b, a handle region 150 located between the upper ends of side members 112a, 112b and a base member 115 located between the lower ends of side members 112a, 112b.
  • second frame element 112 is formed from a closed piece of tubular steel, with first frame element also constructed of steel.
  • the frame elements may be constructed from other suitable rigid materials such as moulded plastics and the like.
  • Handle member 150 is formed as an integral portion of second frame element 112 and allows the seated user 200 to pull apparatus 100 within their reach to either exercise or to alternatively raise themselves from the seated position to a standing position and to then use apparatus 100 as a walking aid.
  • a collapsible seat arrangement may be attached to either first or second frame element 111, 112. In a collapsed position this seat allows apparatus 100 to be used as a walking aid and in a deployed position provides a seat so that a user may be seated thereon whilst using exercise devices 130, 140.
  • Bracing members 114 can be removed and frame elements 111, 112 collapsed together to allow for convenient storage of apparatus 100.
  • Wheels 120 attached to base member 115 can be moved (as best seen in Figure 2) from a retracted position 126 to an engaged position 125 whereby castor wheels 120 contact the floor and allow apparatus 100 to be wheeled as a walking aid.
  • Crank arm exercise device 130 includes a pair of crank arms 131, 132 mounted to a central support 135 which in turn is attached to front and rear support members 133, 134 attached to and arranged perpendicularly to each end of central support 135. This allows crank device 130 to be attached to upright frame structure 110 by pivotably connecting front support member 133 between opposed upper ends 116 of upright struts Ilia, 111b of frame element 111 and furthermore allowing rear support member 134 to rest against a lower region of frame element 111.
  • Crank arm device can be cranked by a person 200 seated on a wheelchair, a standard chair 300 or alternatively the collapsible seat arrangement described herein and is primarily intended to improve muscle tone in the shoulder and arm regions and to furthermore improve the vascular system thereby aiding in the prevention of blood clotting in those areas and thus decreasing the onset or likelihood of debilitating medical conditions such as a stroke or further reduction in mobility.
  • the resistance of crank arm exercise device 130 can be adjusted by turning knob 133 to either increase or decrease the intensity of the exercise as required.
  • crank arm exercise device 130 is removable from first frame element 110 (as seen in Figure 3) and furthermore can be placed on the floor and pedalled independently from apparatus 100.
  • Leg press exercise device 140 is attached to second frame element 112 by releasable clamps 144 which attach to side members 112a, 112b. In this manner, leg press exercise device 140 is also removable from apparatus 100 (as best seen in Figure 3). The resistance of leg press exercise device 140 can be adjusted by turning knob 143 to either increase or decrease the intensity of exercise as required.
  • Leg press exercise device 140 permits a person 200 seated (wheelchair or otherwise) to exercise their legs and lower body by pressing on pedals 141, 142. Isotonic exercise of this nature has been shown to be extremely beneficial, especially when compared to isometric exercise, and serves to improve muscle tone and decrease the possibility of blood clots thereby aiding in the prevention of DVT and other peripheral vascular conditions in the legs such as claudification.
  • FIG. 4 other useful attachments can be removably mounted to apparatus 100.
  • These include double hooked tubular frame members 160 for the purpose of securing oxygen tanks and/ or drip feeds or other such medical accessories to the upright frame structure 110 and a basket 170 to conveniently store and transport items.
  • FIG. 5 there is shown a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus 500 according to a second embodiment of the present invention including an upright frame structure 110 that further includes first and second frame elements 540, 520. Similar to the apparatus illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, first and second frame elements 540, 520 are pivotably connected by bolts or pins 513. In contrast to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, apparatus 500 includes wheels 560 mounted at the feet at each of the opposed upright struts 540a, 540b of first frame element 540 and also the feet of each of the opposed side members 520a, 520b of second frame element 520.
  • Wheels 560 are freely mounted to allow apparatus 500 to be easily directed by a user requiring support from the apparatus.
  • a brake may be applied using brake handle 562 located proximate to handle region 550 which actuates wheel brake 565 by the action of cable 561.
  • a similar arrangement is located on opposed wheel.
  • crank arm exercise device 130 and leg press exercise device 140 may be removably attached to apparatus 500 as required.
  • rear leg 140 of crank arm exercise device is mounted to second frame element 520 in addition to being mounted 516 to first frame 517 element 540 thereby further bracing the upright frame structure 510 in addition to bracing members 514.
  • a performance readout meter 400 is attached to apparatus 500 and may be used to provide diagnostic information such as heart rate and the like.
  • a double hooked tubular frame member 160 is attached to apparatus 500 for the purpose of securing oxygen tanks and/ or drip feeds and other medical accessories. This allows an exerciser to independently use the apparatus 500 as both an exercise device and as a walking aid.
  • Apparatus 600 is essentially identical to apparatus 500 (as shown in Figure 5) excepting that the upright struts of first frame element 540 are shortened. Whilst, the embodiments previously described are more suited to a clinical environment, apparatus 600 may be more readily used as a walking aid more generally in the home or walking the streets due to its reduced size and enhanced mobility.
  • the present invention can help improve the quality of life for ambulant disabled people with peripheral vascular disease by promoting greater mobility as well as providing a convenient means to exercise particularly within hospital or aged care institutions. Isotonic exercise as provided by the present invention where the resistance is substantially constant through the range of movement of the exercise is of particular benefit in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease.

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

Abstract

A combined exercise and walking aid apparatus (100) includes an upright frame structure (110), the upright frame structure including a pair of oppositely inclined frame elements (111, 112) with the frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for the storage. The apparatus also includes at least one exercise device (130, 140) mounted to the upright frame structure. In addition there is provided at least one wheel (120) and a handle (150) located on the upright frame structure to allow an exerciser to grasp the handle and walk supported by the upright frame structure with the at least one exercise device being operable from a seated position.

Description

A COMBINATION EXERCISE APPARATUS AND WALKING AID
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus for the ambulant disabled. In a particular form the present invention relates to an exercise apparatus which can also be used as a walking aid.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The benefits of exercise are well known in the prevention and treatment of a number of peripheral vascular diseases such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and claudification which results in severe discomfort in the leg muscles and is caused by inadequate blood flow. These conditions often occur when a person has lost mobility as a result of either increasing age or as result of surgical procedures. In some cases a person, such as would often present in a hospital or aged care facility, may have extremely limited mobility and may have to exercise in a seated position and furthermore employ a walking frame to help them move about in an upright position. As is well known, aged persons and patients alike are encouraged to maintain as much mobility as possible as this promotes blood flow in their legs thus reducing the further onset of peripheral vascular disease.
Due to the differing ergonomic requirements, standard exercise equipment has been found not to be suitable for persons who are ambulant disabled. This has resulted in specialised equipment being developed and utilised in customised exercise and/ or rehabilitation programs for the ambulant disabled. However, these specialised exercise machines have a number of serious disadvantages. As well as taking up a great deal of floor space these machines often require highly trained attendants who must assist an ambulant disabled person when using this specialised equipment. In those cases where a person has their own individual room such as in a nursing home or other similar aged care facility it would also be advantageous if that person could also exercise in the privacy of their own room. It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus capable of allowing an ambulant disabled person to exercise and maintain mobility without external assistance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect the present invention accordingly provides a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including: an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including a pair of oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus; at least one exercise device mounted to said upright frame structure; at least one wheel and a handle located on said upright frame structure to allow an exerciser to grasp said handle and walk supported by said upright frame structure, wherein said at least one exercise device is operable from a seated position.
As well as being able to exercise in a seated position by using the exercise device mounted on the apparatus an ambulant disabled person can walk supported by the upright frame structure thereby facilitating greater mobility and hence improving treatment or rehabilitation outcomes. Also, as the apparatus can be moved by the ambulant disabled exerciser, the apparatus can be moved between locations as required. Preferably, said handle is located so that an exerciser exercising in a seated position can grasp said handle to rise from said seated position to a walking position.
Thus a person seated in a wheelchair or otherwise can rise from the seated position and use the apparatus to move to a different location.
Preferably, said at least one exercise device is removably mounted to said upright frame structure.
This provides enhanced flexibility as exercise devices can be customized according to the specific needs of a person using the apparatus.
Preferably, said at least one exercise device includes a leg press arrangement mounted to one of said frame elements centrally thereof to exercise the legs of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
Preferably, said apparatus further includes an exercise device which includes a crank arm arrangement mounted to the other of said frame elements centrally thereof, to exercise the arms and shoulder regions of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
Preferably, said at least one exercise device is adapted to provide isotonic exercise to said exerciser.
Isotonic exercise has been shown to be extremely beneficial in the treatment of DVT and other peripheral vascular conditions. Preferably, said at least one exercise device includes manually adjustable variable resistance means.
Preferably, said apparatus further includes a collapsible seat arrangement, said collapsible seat arrangement having a first deployed position wherein said exerciser may exercise seated on said seat arrangement and a second collapsed position wherein said exerciser may use said apparatus as a walking aid.
In a second aspect the present invention accordingly provides, a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including first and second oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus, wherein said second frame element terminates at an upper end in a handle and includes at least one wheel mounted to a lower end, said second frame element further including a leg press arrangement mounted centrally thereof to exercise the legs of an exerciser whilst in a seated position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 2 is a side view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1;
FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1 demonstrating the removable exercise devices; FIGURE 4 is a perspective view of the combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as illustrated in Figure 1 indicating further attachments to the apparatus;
FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention; and FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring now to Figures 1 to 3, there is shown a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus 100 including an upright frame structure 110, wheels 120 attached to a base member 115 of the upright frame structure 110, a crank arm exercise device 130 and a leg press exercise device 140. Upright frame structure 110 consists of first and second frame elements 111, 112 pivotably attached to each other by securing bolts or pins 113 and further braced by intermediate bracing members 114.
First frame element 111 includes two opposed generally upright struts Ilia, 111b whose lower ends form a pair of ground contacting legs. Second frame element 112 is of a generally rectangular shape in plan view having two opposed side members 112a, 112b, a handle region 150 located between the upper ends of side members 112a, 112b and a base member 115 located between the lower ends of side members 112a, 112b. In this embodiment second frame element 112 is formed from a closed piece of tubular steel, with first frame element also constructed of steel. Clearly, as would be apparent to those skilled in the art, the frame elements may be constructed from other suitable rigid materials such as moulded plastics and the like. Handle member 150 is formed as an integral portion of second frame element 112 and allows the seated user 200 to pull apparatus 100 within their reach to either exercise or to alternatively raise themselves from the seated position to a standing position and to then use apparatus 100 as a walking aid. In another embodiment (not illustrated), a collapsible seat arrangement may be attached to either first or second frame element 111, 112. In a collapsed position this seat allows apparatus 100 to be used as a walking aid and in a deployed position provides a seat so that a user may be seated thereon whilst using exercise devices 130, 140.
Bracing members 114 can be removed and frame elements 111, 112 collapsed together to allow for convenient storage of apparatus 100. Wheels 120 attached to base member 115 can be moved (as best seen in Figure 2) from a retracted position 126 to an engaged position 125 whereby castor wheels 120 contact the floor and allow apparatus 100 to be wheeled as a walking aid.
Crank arm exercise device 130 includes a pair of crank arms 131, 132 mounted to a central support 135 which in turn is attached to front and rear support members 133, 134 attached to and arranged perpendicularly to each end of central support 135. This allows crank device 130 to be attached to upright frame structure 110 by pivotably connecting front support member 133 between opposed upper ends 116 of upright struts Ilia, 111b of frame element 111 and furthermore allowing rear support member 134 to rest against a lower region of frame element 111.
Crank arm device can be cranked by a person 200 seated on a wheelchair, a standard chair 300 or alternatively the collapsible seat arrangement described herein and is primarily intended to improve muscle tone in the shoulder and arm regions and to furthermore improve the vascular system thereby aiding in the prevention of blood clotting in those areas and thus decreasing the onset or likelihood of debilitating medical conditions such as a stroke or further reduction in mobility. The resistance of crank arm exercise device 130 can be adjusted by turning knob 133 to either increase or decrease the intensity of the exercise as required.
In addition, crank arm exercise device 130 is removable from first frame element 110 (as seen in Figure 3) and furthermore can be placed on the floor and pedalled independently from apparatus 100.
Leg press exercise device 140 is attached to second frame element 112 by releasable clamps 144 which attach to side members 112a, 112b. In this manner, leg press exercise device 140 is also removable from apparatus 100 (as best seen in Figure 3). The resistance of leg press exercise device 140 can be adjusted by turning knob 143 to either increase or decrease the intensity of exercise as required.
Leg press exercise device 140 permits a person 200 seated (wheelchair or otherwise) to exercise their legs and lower body by pressing on pedals 141, 142. Isotonic exercise of this nature has been shown to be extremely beneficial, especially when compared to isometric exercise, and serves to improve muscle tone and decrease the possibility of blood clots thereby aiding in the prevention of DVT and other peripheral vascular conditions in the legs such as claudification.
As shown in Figure 4, other useful attachments can be removably mounted to apparatus 100. These include double hooked tubular frame members 160 for the purpose of securing oxygen tanks and/ or drip feeds or other such medical accessories to the upright frame structure 110 and a basket 170 to conveniently store and transport items.
Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus 500 according to a second embodiment of the present invention including an upright frame structure 110 that further includes first and second frame elements 540, 520. Similar to the apparatus illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, first and second frame elements 540, 520 are pivotably connected by bolts or pins 513. In contrast to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, apparatus 500 includes wheels 560 mounted at the feet at each of the opposed upright struts 540a, 540b of first frame element 540 and also the feet of each of the opposed side members 520a, 520b of second frame element 520.
Wheels 560 are freely mounted to allow apparatus 500 to be easily directed by a user requiring support from the apparatus. To prevent movement of apparatus 500, a brake may be applied using brake handle 562 located proximate to handle region 550 which actuates wheel brake 565 by the action of cable 561. A similar arrangement is located on opposed wheel.
Once again both crank arm exercise device 130 and leg press exercise device 140 may be removably attached to apparatus 500 as required. In this embodiment, rear leg 140 of crank arm exercise device is mounted to second frame element 520 in addition to being mounted 516 to first frame 517 element 540 thereby further bracing the upright frame structure 510 in addition to bracing members 514. A performance readout meter 400 is attached to apparatus 500 and may be used to provide diagnostic information such as heart rate and the like. Once again a double hooked tubular frame member 160 is attached to apparatus 500 for the purpose of securing oxygen tanks and/ or drip feeds and other medical accessories. This allows an exerciser to independently use the apparatus 500 as both an exercise device and as a walking aid.
Referring now to Figure 6, there is shown a combined exercise and walking aid apparatus 600 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 600 is essentially identical to apparatus 500 (as shown in Figure 5) excepting that the upright struts of first frame element 540 are shortened. Whilst, the embodiments previously described are more suited to a clinical environment, apparatus 600 may be more readily used as a walking aid more generally in the home or walking the streets due to its reduced size and enhanced mobility.
Clearly, the present invention can help improve the quality of life for ambulant disabled people with peripheral vascular disease by promoting greater mobility as well as providing a convenient means to exercise particularly within hospital or aged care institutions. Isotonic exercise as provided by the present invention where the resistance is substantially constant through the range of movement of the exercise is of particular benefit in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease.
Although a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in the foregoing detailed description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiment disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS
1. A combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including: an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including a pair of oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus; at least one exercise device mounted to said upright frame structure; at least one wheel and a handle located on said upπght frame structure to allow an exerciser to grasp said handle and walk supported by said upright frame structure, wherein said at least one exercise device is operable from a seated position.
2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said handle is located so that an exerciser exercising in a seated position can grasp said handle to rise from said seated position to a walking position.
3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one wheel has a first engaged position wherein said at least one wheel engages with the floor and a second retracted position wherein said at least one wheel does not contact the floor.
4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said apparatus includes a pair of transversely spaced apart wheels mounted to each of said frame elements.
5. A combined exercise and walking aid apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein said apparatus includes braking means operable to substantially prevent movement of said apparatus along the ground, said braking means operable by brake actuating means located on said handle.
6. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one exercise device is removably mounted to said upright frame structure.
7. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one exercise device includes a leg press arrangement mounted to one of said frame elements centrally thereof to exercise the legs of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 7, further including an exercise device which includes a crank arm arrangement mounted to the other of said frame elements centrally thereof, to exercise the arms and shoulder regions of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
9. An apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein said crank arm arrangement includes a support member to stably support said crank arm arrangement on the floor to be pedalled by an exerciser in said seated position when said crank arm arrangement is removed from said upright frame structure.
10. An apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one exercise device is adapted to provide isotonic exercise to said exerciser.
11. An apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein said at least one exercise device includes manually adjustable variable resistance means.
12. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said upright frame structure includes a mounting point to mount a frame member to secure medical accessories to said apparatus.
13. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said apparatus further includes a collapsible seat arrangement, said collapsible seat arrangement having a first deployed position wherein said exerciser may exercise seated on said seat arrangement and a second collapsed position wherein said exerciser may use said apparatus as a walking aid.
14. A combined exercise and walking aid apparatus including an upright frame structure, said upright frame structure including first and second oppositely inclined frame elements, said frame elements being pivotably interconnected to permit the frame structure to collapse to a compact collapsed position for storage of said apparatus, wherein a second frame element terminates at an upper end in a handle and includes at least one wheel mounted to a lower end, said second frame element further including a leg press arrangement mounted centrally thereof to exercise the legs of an exerciser whilst in a seated position.
15. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein said first frame element includes a crank arm arrangement mounted centrally thereof to exercise the arms and shoulder regions of said exerciser whilst in said seated position.
16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14 or 15, wherein said apparatus includes a pair of transversely spaced apart wheels mounted to each of said first and second frame elements.
17. An apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein said handle is located so that said exerciser exercising in said seated position can grasp said handle to rise from said seated position to a walking position.
PCT/AU2004/001779 2003-12-19 2004-12-20 A combination exercise apparatus and walking aid WO2005058225A1 (en)

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AU2003907015A AU2003907015A0 (en) 2003-12-19 A combination exercise apparatus and walking aid

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007056830A1 (en) 2005-11-21 2007-05-24 About Time Technologies Pty Ltd Mobility frame

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4068857A (en) * 1974-04-30 1978-01-17 Sven Arne Lennart Karlsson Apparatus enabling disabled persons to move independently
SU1734741A1 (en) * 1989-05-18 1992-05-23 А.Г. Цициков и В.И. Дикуль Device for executing walking exercises
WO2004080365A1 (en) * 2003-03-12 2004-09-23 Foehl Walter Moving and care device for the totally disabled

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4068857A (en) * 1974-04-30 1978-01-17 Sven Arne Lennart Karlsson Apparatus enabling disabled persons to move independently
SU1734741A1 (en) * 1989-05-18 1992-05-23 А.Г. Цициков и В.И. Дикуль Device for executing walking exercises
WO2004080365A1 (en) * 2003-03-12 2004-09-23 Foehl Walter Moving and care device for the totally disabled

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007056830A1 (en) 2005-11-21 2007-05-24 About Time Technologies Pty Ltd Mobility frame
EP1954333A1 (en) * 2005-11-21 2008-08-13 About Time Technologies Pty Ltd Mobility frame
EP1954333A4 (en) * 2005-11-21 2010-03-17 About Time Technologies Pty Lt Mobility frame

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