WO2017089725A1

WO2017089725A1 - Movement assistance device comprising an alert module

Info

Publication number: WO2017089725A1
Application number: PCT/FR2016/053095
Authority: WO
Inventors: Vincent GAUCHARD; Ismael MEITE
Original assignee: Made In Nov'in
Priority date: 2015-11-27
Filing date: 2016-11-25
Publication date: 2017-06-01
Also published as: FR3044456B1; FR3044456A1

Abstract

The invention is a movement assistance device extending between a proximal portion, able to be held in the hand of a person, and a distal portion, able to come into contact with the ground. The device comprises a handle, arranged on the proximal portion thereof, said handle enclosing an alert module, capable of emitting an alert via a wireless connection when the user finds himself/herself in difficulty. The alert module has a one-piece structure, capable of being inserted in the distal portion. On activation thereof, the alert module is able to launch an alert, while possibly establishing a position of the user. The activation can be triggered manually by a switch or automatically using an actimetry circuit.

Description

Displacement aid device comprising an alert module

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The technical field of the invention is a device for assisting the movement of a person, equipped with an integrated warning system, in order to emit a warning signal in the event of the occurrence of a distress situation, type accident, malaise or aggression. The device can be for example a cane or a stick.

PRIOR ART

Nomadic devices allowing the detection of distress situations, of the accident, aggression or malaise type, are currently marketed in various forms, in order to enable a person to report such a situation. These devices usually have a button to trigger an alert. This alert can be the emission of a sound or light signal. It can also be accompanied by the transmission, via Wi-Fi or GSM networks, of a telephone call to emergency services. These products can integrate a satellite positioning means, for example according to the GPS satellite network, to provide a location of the person in distress.

These devices take the form of pendants, watches or simple autonomous boxes. The most complete devices, combining the issuance of a warning signal to a GPS location, and having sufficient autonomy, are generally housings, whose size is close to that of a mobile phone. They can be attached to a belt, or the neck of a user, or slipped into a pocket. But they can be easily forgotten or lost.

Some rods have been proposed, allowing the emission of a light signal or an audible signal in case of alert, or even the emission of a GPS signal or a GSM signal. This is particularly the case of the application CN104382308. That said, the multiplication of functions leads to a product that is particularly complex, expensive to manufacture and unreliable. The document US2003001742 describes a cane whose handle comprises an alert device. But as in the aforementioned application, the device is not monobloc and has multiple components dispersed in a handle. The same is true of patent US5331990, in which the components extend all along the cane. The inventors considered that the integration of alerts and geolocation functions should not be carried out at the expense of simplicity. They propose a device for assisting the movement, and especially walking, integrates an alert system, of simple design, robust, modula ble and having a particularly long operating autonomy. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is a device for assisting the movement of a person, comprising a proximal part, able to be held by a hand of said person, and a distal part, able to come into contact with the ground, in particular when said person moves, the device comprising, at said proximal portion:

an alert module, comprising:

a switch, called an alert switch;

an activation circuit, able to be manually activated by said alert switch;

a transmission circuit capable of transmitting, preferably automatically, a radio frequency warning signal when it is activated by said activation circuit; an envelope covering said alert model;

the warning switch being adapted to be operated manually when said person is in a distress situation;

characterized in that

- The warning module is monoblock, said activation and transmission circuits being disposed on the same support, said support being inserted into said proximal portion.

Monobloc means that the alert model, preala lle to its insertion in the d ispositif, extends in one piece, being carried by the same support. This support may be a support plate, a housing or the envelope mentioned above. Such a one-piece configuration facilitates the insertion of the alert module in the device, this insertion being performed simply, without requiring connection type operations, welding, or installation of different electronic circuits at different locations of the device. Inserting means that all or part of the support is introduced into or around said proximal portion.

By the proximal portion is meant located in or proximal to the proximal portion, so as to be easily accessible by a hand of a user holding the proximal portion. The device may include one of the features described below, taken individually or in technically feasible combinations:

The alert module is inserted into a housing formed in said proximal portion, said proximal portion then being able to form said envelope.

- The proximal portion comprises a handle, the latter forming said envelope.

The alert module extends between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the device, being confined in said envelope. In this case, the alert module can be housed in said envelope, the latter extending between:

a first end attached to a lower end of said proximal portion;

a second end attached to an upper end of said distal portion. According to this configuration, the device extending along a longitudinal axis, between the proximal portion and the distal portion, the first and second ends of the envelope are such that the envelope is adapted to be arranged in a first orientation or in a second orientation, about said longitudinal axis, between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The two ends may each have a symmetry with respect to this longitudinal axis.

The envelope comprises a first opening, through which the warning switch is adapted to be manually operated, and / or a first membrane covering said warning switch, the deformation of which actuates the warning switch.

The warning module comprises an inhibition circuit capable of deactivating the activation circuit after the last has been activated, the inhibition circuit being able to be controlled by an inhibition switch. The envelope may comprise a second opening, through which said muting switch is able to be actuated, and / or a second membrane covering said muting switch, and whose deformation makes it possible to actuate the muting switch.

The warning switch extends in a first direction and the inhibition switch extends in a second direction, the second direction being secant of the first direction, being in particular orthogonal to said first direction.

The warning module extends along a face, said front face, of which the warning switch protrudes, said front face being bordered by a plurality of lateral faces, substantially orthogonal to said front face, the switch of inhibition doing protrusion of one of said side faces, so that the first opening extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the second opening.

The alert module comprises a battery and a base configured to be connected to a cable, for example a power cable, the device having a third opening located at said base. This third opening allows the connection to said cable. This third opening may be confused with the second opening.

The alert module comprises a geolocation circuit, able to establish a position of said module when it is activated by the activation circuit. Preferably, the geolocation circuit is configured to be inactive until it has been activated. This optimizes the power consumption of the alert module.

The alert module comprises an actimetry circuit, comprising at least one motion sensor, and able to detect a movement representative of a distress situation, in which case the actimetry circuit is configured to actuate the activation circuit , so as to activate the transmission circuit and the possible geolocation circuit. In addition or alternatively, the actimetry circuit is able to identify an activity exercised by a user. He can then determine the time spent by the user to perform this activity during a given time period. This activity can be, for example, walking.

The transmission circuit is capable of transmitting a radio-frequency warning signal to a mobile telephone network. Preferably, when an alert module is carried by a person, the transmission circuit is configured to be inactive until it has been activated by the activation circuit, whether it is a manual activation, through the alert switch, or automatic activation, through the actimetry circuit. In other words, before being activated by the activation circuit, the transmission circuit is not connected to a mobile telephone network. After activation, it is able to go from an idle state to an active state, and to perform the following operations: identify an available mobile telephony network;

establish a connection with said identified mobile telephone network; ■ automatically transmit the warning signal following said connection.

In other words, after having been activated during a distress situation, the transmission circuit is able to connect to a mobile telephone network and to automatically transmit the alert signal. This allows a significant reduction in the power consumption of the alert module. The autonomy of the module is therefore particularly long.

The alert module comprises a support plate supporting the switches as well as the activation circuits, inhibition, emission, and possible circuits geolocation and / or actimetry.

The battery extends between the transmission circuit, and the eventual geolocation circuit, and the warning switch.

At least one dimension of said module coincides with a dimension of said housing, such that said housing holds the module when the latter is inserted into said housing. Preferably, each dimension of the housing corresponds substantially to each dimension of the module, so as to allow optimal integration of the module in said housing.

The alert module is removable vis-à-vis said device.

The number of openings in said envelope is preferably less than or equal to 3, or less than or equal to 2.

The warning module extends along a front face, the latter having a width and a length, the length being greater than the width, the width of said front face being less than 35 mm, and preferably less than 30 mm. This facilitates insertion of the alert module into the device.

- The device comprises a handle, provided at said proximal portion, in which is formed a housing and wherein integrates the alert module.

The device has a shaft extending between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

The device can be one of the following: cane, crutch, walking stick, ski pole, bicycle handlebar, oar or other boating article, handle of a boating engine.

The envelope has the least possible openings, this number being preferably limited to 3.

Another object of the invention is a method of transmitting an alert signal using a device as described in this description, in which the transmission circuit is able to transmit said signal of alert to a mobile telephone network, the method comprising the following steps:

activation of the transmission circuit, in particular by the activation circuit, during the occurrence of a distress situation; following this activation, identification, by the transmission circuit, of an available mobile telephony network;

following this identification, establishing, by said transmission circuit, a connection with the mobile telephone network thus identified;

following this connection, automatic transmission of an alert signal by said transmission circuit to said mobile telephone network.

In other words, after being activated during a distress situation, the transmission circuit connects to a mobile telephone network and automatically transmits the alert signal.

Activation of the activation circuit can be carried out by the alert switch or by the actimetry circuit described in this application.

When the device comprises a geolocation circuit, the method may comprise:

activation of said geolocation circuit in case of occurrence of a distress situation;

following this activation, the determination of a position of the device by said geolocation circuit;

transmission of said position in the warning message by the transmission circuit.

The invention will be better understood on reading the description of particular embodiments which follows, given in a non-limiting manner, this description based on the figures described below. FIGURES

FIG. 1A represents a first embodiment of the invention, in which the device takes the form of a cane. The cane has a proximal portion comprising a handle and enclosing an alert module. The handle can be divided into a so-called lower half-handle and a so-called upper half-handle. Figure 1B shows the lower half-handle. Figure 1C shows the lower half-handle, in a housing of which is inserted an alert module. Figure 1D shows the upper half-handle.

FIG. 2A represents an alert module comprising a containment envelope. Figure 2B shows the alert module without said containment envelope. Figure 2C is another representation of the alert module drawn in Figure 2A and 2B. Figure 2D shows another representation of the alert module illustrated in Figures 2A, 2B and 2C. FIG. 3 represents electronic circuits constituting the alert module. Figure 4A shows a second embodiment of the invention. Figure 4B shows a detail of the insertion of an alert module in the device. Figures 4C and 4D show an alert module of this second embodiment.

Figures 5A, 5B and 5C show a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 represents another example of a cane able to receive an alert module according to the invention

DESCRIPTION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

The term "mobility assistance device" refers to any device that can be handled by a person in such a way as to allow his movement, or to help him to move. The movement can be walking, which is one of the main applications, but also skiing, or a trip on the water. Such a device usually extends between a proximal portion, intended to be taken in hand by a person, and a distal portion, intended to come into contact with the ground, or with water, when a person moves. It can be a cane, a crutch, a ski pole, a walking stick, a walker, this list is not limiting.

FIG. 1A represents a first embodiment of the invention, in which the walking aid device is a cane. Figure 1A shows a proximal portion 2 of a cane, having a handle 3. The rod extends to a distal portion 4, adapted to contact the ground, not shown. This handle 3 is constituted by an assembly of a lower half-handle 3, and an upper half-handle 3 _S. Upper half-handle 3, flush with an alert switch 41, here taking the form of a push button. This warning switch 41 is preferably disposed at a distance of less than 20 cm from the proximal portion 2. Preferably, this distance is between 5 and 10 cm, for example 7 cm, so that the switch can be easily actuated by a finger, in particular the index, of a user holding the handle 3 of his hand. This warning switch 41 opens an alert module 30, disposed inside the handle. By switch is meant an actuator capable of changing the state of a circuit, from an inactive state to an active state or vice versa. A switch may in particular be a push-button type switch.

Figure 1B shows a view of the lower half-handle 3 ,, in which is formed a housing said lower housing 5 ,. This housing is intended to accommodate the warning module 30. FIG. 1C represents the lower half-handle 3 ,, in which the warning module 30 is arranged. In this first embodiment, the warning module 30 is contained in a housing 48, enclosing the main circuits making up this module. The case 48 forms also an envelope of the alert module. Thus, the module is monobloc, and contained in the housing 48, the latter allowing a mechanical protection of the module, or a protection vis-à-vis moisture or dust. In some applications, the housing seals the alert module 30. The housing may have openings, allowing the passage of switches or the connection to external systems. The number of openings is limited, and is preferably less than 3 and more preferably less than 2. In this figure appears the alert switch 41 previously mentioned.

Figure 1D shows a view of the upper half-handle 3 _S , in which is formed an upper housing 5 _S. The lower and upper half handles are intended to be assembled against each other, for example by gluing, welding or any other appropriate technique. The lower and upper housing 5 and 5 _S then form a housing 5, here in the form of a hollow cavity, receiving the alert module 30 in its housing. In this way, the handle 3, obtained by assembling the two half-handles 3, 3 _S forms an envelope 20 covering the warning module 30. The upper half-handle 3 _S has a first opening 21 through which can extend the alert switch. The handle forms an envelope 20, in which the warning module is inserted discretely, only openings in the handle 3 being visible, these openings corresponding to the first opening 21 or to openings allowing the actuation of switches or to alert module connections, as described below. The number of openings is preferably limited to 3. The first opening 21 may be replaced by a first membrane placed at the level of the envelope 20, whose deformation actuates the warning switch 41. The envelope 20 is then sealed . The first opening 21 may also be covered by such a membrane, always for protection against moisture or dust. FIG. 2A represents an alert module 30 able to be inserted in said envelope 20, so that the warning switch can be actuated through the first opening 21, or by deforming a first membrane formed in said envelope. The handle 3 defines an external surface 3e. Preferably, the alert switch is flush with the outer surface 3e of the handle, or is slightly recessed therefrom as shown in FIG. 1A. This makes it possible to improve the discretion of the warning module 30. Such an integration also makes it possible to keep the alert module permanently in the handle 3 for a prolonged period, that is to say for several days, even weeks, or several months. This limits the risk of forgetting the alert module 30, unlike nomadic warning devices of the prior art, the latter not being designed to be integrated in a cane or other devices for moving aid. In particular, when the alert module 30 is integrated in the handle 3 of a cane, its user can hardly forget it, because he needs his rod to move. The alert module is able to trigger an alert when an activation circuit 31 is activated. This activation circuit 31 may in particular be activated by the warning switch 41, when a user is in difficulty and needs assistance. The alert is transmitted wirelessly, in particular by radio-frequency link, by a transmission circuit 34 detailed below.

The warning module 30 may comprise an inhibition switch 42, able to activate an inhibition circuit 32. This inhibition circuit 32, described in connection with FIG. 2B, has the function of invalidating an involuntary operation of the activation circuit 31. The envelope 20 then comprises a second opening 22, allowing the actuation of the inhibition switch 42, this second opening being able to be replaced by a second membrane, or covered by such a membrane, the deformation of which actuates the inhibition circuit 32. the alert module comprises a front face _30a, in which is provided the warning switch, said front face being adjacent to a plurality of side faces 30; extending substantially orthogonally to said front face. In the example shown in this figure, the inhibition switch 42 opens a side face 30, while the warning switch 41 opens from the front face 30 _a , which is a preferred configuration. This makes it possible in particular to avoid confusion between the warning switch 41 and the inhibition switch 42 when the warning module 30 is integrated in the handle 3. In FIG. 1A, there is shown a second opening 22, arranged in the envelope 20, allowing access to the inhibition switch 42.

The alert module 30 is intended to be integrated in a device 1 of displacement aid, and more particularly to the level or in a handle 3. Its dimensions must be appropriate for such integration. Consequently, the warning module advantageously extends along a length L of less than 10 cm, and preferably less than 7 cm, and extends in a width of less than 3.5 cm, and preferably less than equal to 3 cm. Its thickness ε is preferably less than or equal to 1.5 cm, or even 1 cm. The most critical dimension is the width l, a small width facilitating the integration in such an alert module in a cylindrical device. As shown in Figure 2A, the housing 48 is formed by the assembly of a plate, said support plate 38, and a cover 38 '. FIG. 2B represents the warning module after removal of the cover 38 '. The housing forms an envelope of the alert module 30.

FIG. 2B represents the main components of the warning module 30. The warning switch 41 is connected to an activation circuit 31, the function of which is to activate a transmission circuit 34, the latter generating an alert when the warning switch 41 has been actuated. Activation circuit 31 may activate an illuminating indicator light when the alert switch has been actuated. This indicator light can be placed under the warning switch 41, so that the switch lights up when it has been activated. This indicator light is thus visible through the first opening 21. The indicator light can be replaced by, or associated with, any other warning transducer generating an optical, acoustic or vibration signal when the activation circuit 31 is activated. The function of such an alert transducer is to indicate to the user that an alert is being transmitted, or has been sent by the alert module 30. The activation circuit 31 comprises a microcontroller 33 for controlling the electronic circuits constituting the alert module 30, both their activation and deactivation.

As previously mentioned, the warning module may comprise an inhibition switch 42, connected to an inhibition circuit 32, the function of which is to inhibit an involuntary actuation of the transmission circuit 34. inhibition projects from a side face 30i of the alert module.

The alert module comprises a battery 35 allowing the power supply of the various components making up this module. Preferably, this battery is arranged between the warning switch 41 and a support plate 38, supporting the inhibition circuits 32, transmission 34 and a geolocation circuit 36. The function of the transmission circuit 34 is automatically transmit a radiofrequency alert signal when it is activated by the activation circuit 31, for example following the actuation of the warning switch 41. This warning signal is for example a telephone call at its destination. a preprogrammed number, for example an emergency service or a close relation of the user. The transmission circuit 34 may for example comprise a SIM card (acronym for the English term Subscriber Identity Module), in whatever format, capable of allowing a telephone call by a wireless telecommunications network, for example a GSM network, or a low-speed and long-distance cellular network, this type of network being usually dedicated connected objects. Such networks are sometimes referred to by the acronym "LPWAN", meaning "Low Power Wide Area Network". Networks are currently offered by the operator Sigfox (registered trademark) or the alliance Lo a (registered trademark). Preferably, the network is a mobile telephone network, this type of network for exchanging a large number of data and enjoying extensive coverage. It can be a telephone network according to the GSM, GPRS, 4G or other standard. In a complementary or alternative way, the alert can be set by a wireless Internet network or by any radio-frequency wireless link whose range is sufficient.

Preferably, and this constitutes a significant difference with respect to known mobile warning modules, the transmission circuit 34 is inactive, when it is worn by a person, until it has been activated. , in particular by the microcontroller 33 of the activation circuit 31. In other words, the transmission circuit 34 transmits or receives signals to or from an external telecommunication network only when it has been requested by the Microcontroller 33. Unlike devices known to date, the transmission circuit is not in periodic communication with an external wireless telecommunication network. This feature greatly increases the autonomy of the alert module. Indeed, any communication, periodic or continuous, with a wireless telecommunications network, increases the power consumption, which is why the autonomy of current warning devices is limited, at best, to a few days. The fact that activating the transmission circuit 34 only in case of occurrence of a particular situation allows a battery life exceeding one week and up to several weeks. This limits the recharge periods of the device. By particular situation is meant a situation of distress for the user, of the fall type, malaise, or a recharge situation of the alert module 30 or a maintenance situation of the latter. Thus, when the transmission circuit 34 has been activated, it identifies a mobile telephone network, establishes a connection with the telephone network thus identified, and then automatically transmits a transmission signal to a predetermined recipient. These identification operations of an available mobile telephony network, then of connection to a network, then of issuing an alert signal are transparent to the user and are automatically linked as soon as the circuit of issue 34 has been activated. The connection between the transmission circuit and the mobile telephone network is bidirectional because it involves the sending and receiving of connection signals by the transmission circuit 34, prior to sending the warning signal. The function of the geolocation circuit 36 is to provide a position of the alert module when activated by the activation circuit 31. This geolocation can be performed by a satellite network, GPS or Galileo type, or by GSM. It makes it possible to establish a geographical position of the module 30, that is to say its latitude, its longitude and possibly its altitude. One of the peculiarities of the alert module 30 is that, preferably, in the absence of activation during an alert, the geolocation circuit is inactive. This makes it possible to significantly limit the power consumption of the alert module. The inventors believe that the autonomy can thus reach several weeks, or even several months, while systems of the prior art, establishing periodically a geolocation, have a limited autonomy to one or two days.

Thus, when the warning switch 41 is activated, the activation circuit activates both the transmission circuit 34 and the geolocation circuit 36. The transmission circuit 34 is able to establish a wireless communication, way to address an alert message and to communicate the location of the alert module, the latter being established by the geolocation circuit 36. In the example shown in Figure 2B, the support plate 38 is secured to the battery 35 , the latter being integral with the warning switch 41 and the activation circuit 31. Thus, the activation circuit 31, the inhibition circuit 32, the transmission circuit 34, the geolocation circuit 36, the battery 35, as well as the two switches 41, 42 are carried by this support plate 38. There is then a monoblock warning module 30, carrying all of these components on the same support, in this case the support plate 38. The alert module can then be This monobloc configuration facilitates the integration of the alert module 30 in a device 1 for assisting the movement, for example in a handle 3 of such a device. This makes it possible to provide a single compact housing 5 inside the device 1 in which the module 30 can be inserted. It should be noted that the housing 48 also constitutes a support and an envelope within the meaning of the invention. The alert module can be considered as a monoblock in that it is confined in the same housing.

As shown in FIGS. 1B, 1C and 1D, the fact of having a monobloc warning module allows insertion of the latter into the lower housing 5 ,, of the lower half 3 ,, and then covering it with half superior 3 _S. As previously described, the lower housing 5 and the upper housing 5 _S together define a hollow housing 5, adapted to the dimensions of the monobloc module 30, for integrating and maintaining the alert module 30 in the handle 3, formed by the assembly of the lower half 3, and the upper half 3 _S. As previously indicated, the handle 3 forms an envelope of the alert module, whether the latter comprises a housing 48 or not. Preferably, at least one of the dimensions of the housing 5, whether the length, the width or the thickness, corresponds to the corresponding dimension of the module, so as to allow maintenance of the alert module by simply inserting the latter into said housing.

The fact of having a monobloc warning module also facilitates a possible replacement of the alert module or any maintenance operation requiring the removal of the alert module 30 of the device 1 in which it is integrated.

The battery 35 is here a rechargeable battery, interposed between the support plate 38 and the warning switch 41. The inventors believe that such an arrangement is optimal with respect to the compactness of the alert module 30. Indeed, as previously mentioned, the maximum width of the module is preferably less than 35 mm, or even 30 mm. Advantageously, its length is less than 100 mm, or even 70 mm. The position of the battery 35, between the support plate 38 and the warning switch 41, meets these dimensional constraints. Preferably, the battery 35 is centered with respect to the support plate 38, so that transmit or receive antennas 39, coupled to the emission and geolocation circuits, may extend over a portion of the plate support 38 not covered by the battery 35.

According to one embodiment, the alert module 30 may comprise an actimetry circuit 37, comprising one or more motion sensors, making it possible to detect movements of the module, and to activate the transmission circuit 34, in particular via the activation circuit 31 when a suspicious movement is detected. This actimetry circuit comprises at least one motion sensor that can be an accelerometer, a magnetometer or a gyrometer, or a combination of such sensors. It includes a microprocessor to identify a suspicious movement from signals transmitted by each motion sensor. By suspicious movement is meant a movement representative of a situation of distress for the user of the cane, for example a fall, aggression, marked tremors.

The microprocessor of the actimetry circuit 37 is then able to execute an algorithm for detecting a distress situation from the signals measured by the motion sensors. The use of such motion sensors for detecting a fall of a person, or other stress situation has already been described in the literature. The microprocessor can for example implement a fall detection algorithm, based on signals respectively delivered by an accelerometer and a magnetometer, as described in EP1731098. In case of occurrence of such a suspicious movement, the actimetry circuit activates the transmission circuit 31, so that the microcontroller 33 activates the transmission circuit 34 and the geolocation circuit 36, as well as the transducer. previously described alert. The user can then actuate the inhibition switch 42 in case of false alarm, occurring for example if the cane falls alone, the user is not in a situation of distress. The inhibition circuit 32, activated by the inhibition switch 42, then deactivates the activation circuit 31 and the microcontroller 33 deactivates the transmission circuits 34 and geolocation 36. This avoids issuing an unjustified alert. Thus, during normal operation of the device, the transmission and geolocation circuits are preferably activated:

either manually, by the warning switch 41;

automatically, by the actimetry circuit 37.

This does not prevent these circuits can be activated outside periods of normal operation of the device, for example during recharging periods of the battery or during periods of reset of the alert module.

According to one variant, the actimetry circuit 37 is also able to determine the state in which a person is, and can for example detect the type of movement made by the person. For example, the actimetry circuit 37 can detect a walking movement of a user and determine, for example daily, the time spent by the user to walk, like self-monitoring systems currently marketed. For example, an algorithm can be used to detect the nature of the movement made by a person on the basis of signals supplied by the motion sensors. Such algorithms are known. According to one variant, the actimetry circuit 37 is able to activate the inhibition circuit 32 when a predetermined movement, called the inhibition movement, of the warning device is detected. When this inhibition movement is intentionally performed by the user, the inhibition circuit 42 is activated. Such an inhibition movement may correspond to a sequence of gestures known to the user. Its implementation makes it possible to inhibit an unwanted activation of the activation circuit 31. An inhibition movement may correspond, for example, to the fact of tapping the device 3 times consecutively against the ground in a determined time interval, for example 1 second. When the device is a cane or a walking stick or ski, the inventors believe that it is preferable to have the motion sensors at the proximal portion 2, or near the latter. The position of the alert module, in a handle provided at said proximal portion, is therefore judiciously chosen. FIG. 2C represents an alert module 30 comprising a base 45 intended to be connected to a suitable connector to enable recharging of the battery 35. This base can also enable the connection of a microprocessor present in the alert module, or a memory linked to such a microprocessor, to update the algorithms that can be implemented by this microprocessor. The handle, in which is inserted the warning module, then comprises a third opening 25, allowing access to the base 45. Preferably, the base 45 is formed on a side face 30; of the warning module 30. According to a variant of the example shown in Figure 2C, the base can be placed adjacent to the inhibition switch 42. In this case, the second opening 22 may be merged with the third 25, and allows access to the inhibition switch 42 and the base 45.

According to one embodiment, shown in FIG. 2D, the warning device comprises a so-called utilization switch 44, able to move from a rest position to a use position. The rest position corresponds to a situation in which the device is not used. In this case, the actimetry circuit 37 is not active. The device can then be manipulated, and, for example, undergo an acceleration or a shock without this activating the activation circuit 31. The position of use corresponds to a use of the alert device, the circuit of actimetry 37 being active. The utilization switch 44 can be adapted to move from a rest position to a use position when the module 30 is inserted into the envelope 20. This switch is shown in FIG. User 44 being disposed in a rear face _30b opposite to the front face 30 _a of the module 30, said rear face extending preferably parallel to said front face. When it occupies its rest position, it can open the housing 48, for example through a fourth opening. As described in connection with the warning switch 41 and the muting switch 42, the utilization switch 44 may also be actuated by a deformation of a membrane. When the module 30 is placed in the envelope 20, the use switch 44 is pressed against said envelope 20 and reaches its position of use. The actimetry circuit 37 is then activated, the latter being able to activate, in turn, via the activation circuit 31, the transmission circuit 34 when a movement representative of a distress situation, such as a fall, is detected, so that an alert is automatically issued.

FIG. 3 represents the transmission circuit 34, the inhibition circuit 32 as well as the geolocation circuit 36. There is also a distinction between the inhibition switch 42 and the base 45. FIG. transmission / reception 39 connected to the emission circuits 34 or geolocation 36. They then extend in a ground plane not covered by the battery 35 or other component likely to disturb the reception or emission of a radio signal -frequency by these antennas.

We will now describe another embodiment of a displacement device 1 comprising an alert module 30 housed at its proximal portion 2, in connection with Figures 4A to 4D. The alert module may comprise the same components as those described in connection with the previous embodiment, and in particular:

an activation circuit 31, able to be activated manually by an alert switch 41;

a transmission circuit 34, able to transmit a radio-frequency warning signal when it is activated by the activation circuit 31;

a geolocation circuit 36, able to be activated by the activation circuit 31 to determine a geographical position of the alert module when it is activated by the activation circuit;

an actimetry circuit 37, capable of activating the activation circuit 31, thereby causing the activation of the transmission circuit 34 and the geolocation circuit 36 when a distress situation is detected;

an inhibition circuit 32 able to inhibit the activation of the transmission circuit and the geolocation circuit in case of undesired activation, this inhibition circuit being able to be controlled by an inhibition switch 42;

a battery 35;

a base 45, allowing a wired connection with an external device, either to recharge the battery 35, or to reconfigure one of the circuits listed above.

These different circuits are arranged in an envelope 20, providing their mechanical protection, and acting as a housing. Unlike the previous embodiment, the envelope 20 is not integrated in the handle 3 of the device, but is interposed between the proximal portion 2 and the distal portion 4, as shown in Figure 4A. The envelope 20 is then a separate component of the device 1 and forms a support of the alert module. The alert module 30 is monobloc, as placed inside said envelope 20, forming a support. It is adapted to be inserted in the proximal portion 2, as illustrated in FIG. 4B. 4B shows that the envelope 20 has a first end 20i adapted to be connected to an upper end 4 _S of the distal portion 4. It also comprises a second end 2U ₂ adapted to be connected to a lower end 2 of the proximal portion 2. The second end 2Ο ₂ here takes the form of a first axis, forming a male portion, adapted to engage in an opening in the lower end 2 of the proximal portion 2. The first end 20i here takes the form of an orifice, in which can be inserted a second axis emerging from the upper end 4 _S of the distal portion 4.

According to this embodiment, the alert module and confined within an envelope 20, and is then in a one-piece configuration. It is inserted both in the proximal portion 2 and in the distal portion 4 of the device. In this example, the device is configured so that the warning module can be inserted in a first orientation or a second orientation, said first and second orientations being symmetrical to one another with respect to a longitudinal axis Δ according to which the device extends. This makes it possible to position the warning module 30, relative to the handle 3, so that the first orientation of the alert module is adapted to a right-handed user, while the second orientation is adapted to a left-handed user. The first and second orientations of the warning module are offset by 180 ° around the longitudinal axis Δ.

Figures 4C and 4D show the alert module 30 as shown in Figures 4C and 4D. We distinguish the first and second ends 20ι, 2Ο ₂ , having a symmetry at 180 °, which allows the insertion of the module in the device 1 in the first orientation or in the second orientation. In FIG. 4C, a distinction is made between the first opening 21, enabling the activation of the warning switch 41, and the second opening 22 enabling the inhibition switch 42 to be actuated. FIG. 4D shows the third opening 25, giving access to the base 45. In this figure, there is shown an orientation Di of the warning switch 41. Due to the symmetry of the first and second ends of the envelope, the latter can be returned from 180 °, so that the warning switch 41 extends in an opposite direction. FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C show another embodiment, in which the warning module 30 is inserted around the handle 3 of a cane, and more precisely in a housing 5 formed in said handle, in which the module Alert can be inserted removably. Figure 5A shows the alert module 30 thus inserted. We distinguish the activation switch 41, as well as the base 45 previously described. Figure 5B shows the handle 3 of the rod before the insertion of the alert module 30. A housing 5 is formed in the latter, whose dimensions are adjusted so that the alert module 30 can be inserted. The insertion of the alert module in the housing 5 keeps the alert module, due to an adjustment of the dimensions of the housing 5 relative to those of the alert module. An additional fixing means, for example a screw, may make it possible to hold the warning module 30 more securely in the housing 5. FIG. 5C represents the warning module 30. The latter matches the shape of the housing 5. In this for example, the alert module comprises a support plate 38, from which all the components of the alert module are integral; the alert module is thus monoblock, because carried by the same support. There is a battery 35 of the alert module.

Figure 6 illustrates a cane, said English cane, in or on which the alert module 30 can be inserted. In particular, the alert module 30 can be inserted at the handle 3 of the cane, so that the activation switch 41 is easily accessible by a user. The handle has a 3ext extension, intended to be held by the hand of the user. The warning module 30 is arranged such that the activation switch 41 is arranged on the extension 3ext.

Although described in connection with the handle of a cane, the warning module can be arranged in a walking stick, a ski pole, a walker or a crutch, or even in a structure of a wheelchair for a person disabled. It can also be arranged in a frame element of a bicycle, for example a handlebar, or in a boating equipment, for example a train, a boom, the handle of an engine.

Claims

1. A device (1) for assisting the movement of a person, comprising a proximal part (2) able to be held by said person and a distal part (4) able to come into contact with the ground when the person moves, the device comprising, at the level of said proximal portion:

an alert module (30), comprising:

a switch, said alert switch (41);

an activation circuit (31), able to be activated by said alert switch (41);

a transmission circuit (34) capable of automatically transmitting a radio-frequency warning signal when it is activated by said activation circuit (31);

an envelope (20) covering said warning module (30);

the warning switch (41) being adapted to be operated manually when said person is in a distress situation;

characterized in that

the warning module is monoblock, said activation (31) and emission (34) circuits being arranged on the same support (20, 38, 48), the support being inserted in or around said proximal portion (2 ), the alert module being, prior to insertion, carried by said support.

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the alert module (30) is inserted removably.

3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said envelope (20) comprises:

- a first opening (21) through which said warning switch (41) is adapted to be manually operated;

or a first membrane covering said warning switch (41) and whose deformation makes it possible to actuate said warning switch.

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alert module (30) is inserted into a housing (5) formed in said proximal portion (2), said proximal portion forming said casing (20).

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one dimension of the housing (5) corresponds to a dimension of the alert module (30), so as to allow maintenance of the alert module (30). by simply inserting the latter into the housing.

Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alert module (30) extends between said proximal portion (2) and the distal portion (4).

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the envelope comprises a first opening (21) through which the warning switch is adapted to be manually operated, and wherein the alert module (30). has an inhibition circuit (32), able to disable the transmission circuit (34) after the latter has been activated, the warning module comprising an inhibition switch (42) able to actuate said circuit muting (32), the envelope having a second opening (22) through which the muting switch is operable.

8. Device according to claim 7, wherein the warning module (30) comprises a face, said front face (30 _a ), of which the warning switch (41) protrudes, said front face being lined with a plurality of side faces (30;), substantially orthogonal to said front face, the muting switch projecting from one of said side faces, such that the first opening (21) extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the second opening (22).

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission circuit is adapted to transmit a radio frequency signal to a mobile radio network, said transmission circuit being configured, after being activated. by the activation circuit for (31):

identify an available mobile phone network;

■ establish a connection with said mobile network thus identified; automatically transmit the warning signal following said connection.

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alert module (30) comprises a geolocation circuit (36), adapted to establish a position of said alert module (30) when activated by the activation circuit (31).

11. The device of claim 10 wherein said geolocation circuit (36) is configured to be inactive in the absence of activation of the activation circuit (31).

12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alert module comprises an actimetry circuit (37), comprising at least one motion sensor adapted to detect movements of said module, and to activate the control circuit. activation (31) in case of detection of a movement representative of a distress situation of said person.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the alert module (30) includes a front face _(30a), the latter extending in a width and a length, the width of said front face being less than 35 mm.

14. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is a cane or a crutch or a walking stick or a ski pole.

15. A method of transmitting an alert signal using a device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the transmitting circuit is adapted to transmit said alert signal to a mobile telephone network, the method comprising the following steps:

activation of the transmitting circuit (34) by the activation circuit (31) in case of occurrence of a distress situation;

following this activation, identification, by said transmission circuit (34), of an available mobile telephony network;

following this identification, establishing, by said transmission circuit (34), a connection with said mobile telephone network thus identified;

following this connection, automatic transmission of an alert signal by said transmission circuit (34) to said mobile telephone network.